Gary Lineker says that he stands by his criticism of the government’s immigration policy and doesn’t fear being suspended by the BBC.
The Match of The Day presenter was asked by reporters outside his home whether he stood by his tweets. He replied: “Course”.
According to the BBC news website:
Lineker had compared the language the government used to set out asylum plans to “that used by Germany in the 30s”.
The culture secretary said the presenter’s tweets were “disappointing and inappropriate”.
Lucy Frazer said it was “important for the BBC to retain impartiality if it is to retain the trust of the public who pay the licence fee”.
The BBC said on Wednesday it was having a “frank conversation” with Lineker about the BBC’s guidelines on remaining impartial.
Lineker was asked by a group of reporters outside his London home on Thursday whether he feared “getting suspended” and he answered: “No.”
The corporation’s former editorial policy controller Richard Ayre said the presenter had a choice to make over his role at the BBC.
He said Lineker must consider whether to stay or to leave and “become a social media influencer”.
On Tuesday, the government outlined its plans to ban people arriving in the UK illegally from ever claiming asylum, in a bid to address a rise in the number of people crossing the Channel in small boats.
Opposition MPs and charities have strongly objected to the proposals, but the PM and home secretary have defended the plan, saying stopping the crossings is a priority for the British people.
Lineker’s remarks have been widely criticised by Conservative MPs and ministers, including Downing Street.
