Former England footballer and BBC host Gary Lineker has said he does not fear a possible suspension from the BBC for criticizing the government's absolutist immigration policy.
Speaking to reporters outside his home, Gary Lineker said he stood by his tweet.
Gary Lineker compared the language used by the government to the refugee plan to 'the language used by Germany in the 1930s'.
Secretary Culture said that Gary Lineker's tweets were disappointing and inappropriate.
Lucy Freezer said, "If BBC wants to maintain the trust of the people who pay their license fees, it is necessary to maintain impartiality." On Wednesday, the BBC said it was "having an open conversation" with Lyncker about its instructions to remain impartial with the BBC. On Thursday, a group of journalists outside his residence in London asked Lyncker if he was afraid of being "suspended," to which he replied, "no." As he drove around in his car, Lyncker said he always speaks to the BBC and often talks to the Director-General. When asked if he was sorry for the tweet, he said, "no." Former BBC policy controller Richard Ayre said the presenter had the power to decide on his role at the BBC. He said Lyncker should consider whether to stay or leave and "become a social media influencer." On Tuesday, the government presented a plan to prevent illegal immigration of people seeking political asylum in the UK, in order to prevent an increase in the number of people crossing the English Channel in small boats. Members of the opposition party in parliament and charitable organizations have strongly objected to these proposals, but Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Interior Minister Suella Braverman have defended the project, saying that stopping cross-channel crossings is a priority for the British people.
Conservative members of parliament and ministers, including Downing Street, have criticized Lenika's statement on a large scale.
In response to the criticism, Lenika tweeted on Wednesday: "I will continue to try to speak for those poor people who have no means."
62-year-old Lenika has been hosting the BBC's Match of the Day since 1999. They also work for La Liga TV in Spain.
Responding to a question in the House of Commons, Culture Secretary Freezer said: "Comparing government policy on immigration to someone who fled Nazi Germany in the 1930s seems really disappointing and inappropriate...
"BBC is operationally independent and I am pleased that the BBC will talk to Gary Lineker so that they can be reminded of their responsibilities in relation to social media.
Former Culture Secretary Sir John Whittingdale said that in order for the BBC to be politically impartial, 'all those who are present on the BBC should be surrounded' and ministers should ensure that the principle is enforced on both freelancers and full-time employees in the BBC's charter review.
Former board member of the Board of Materials at the Publications Agency, Ira, said it is 'unacceptable' to compare anyone working for the BBC to a sewer reviewer on third rate.
The controversy surrounding Lenika's statement has continued to garner attention and spark discussions about the role of public figures in political discourse. Many have criticized the government's response, arguing that Lenika's comparison was not only valid but necessary in highlighting the dire situation faced by many immigrants.
Supporters of Lenika have also pointed out that the BBC is meant to be operationally independent and that politicians should not be interfering in its affairs. They argue that any attempts to censor or silence Lenika would be an attack on free speech and the public's right to hear diverse opinions.
Despite the backlash, Lenika has stood by their statement, stating that they will continue to speak up for marginalized communities. Their stance has inspired many to engage in conversations about immigration policies and the responsibilities of those in positions of power to use their platforms to advocate for positive change.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the government and the BBC will respond to the situation and whether Lenika will face any repercussions for their remarks.
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