Gary Lineker is set to return to BBC and Match of the Day after a u-turn from the broadcaster.
Lineker was recently taken off air after a tweet criticising the Government's "stop the boats" policy. Tim Davie, director-general of the BBC, apologised to staff, contributors, presenters and the audiences for what he described as a 'difficult period'.
The director-general also confirmed an independent review will now take place on BBC social media guidance after a fallout. The row began after Tuesday's announcement of government plans to ban people arriving in the UK on "small boats" from ever claiming asylum. On Twitter, Lineker said it was an "immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s."
READ MORE: Gary Lineker returns as BBC release statement and apology after u-turn
A BBC spokesperson said Lineker would be off air until an agreement was reached on his future use of social media, sending the broadcaster's live sports coverage into meltdown with presenters and reporters - including Alan Shearer, Ian Wright and Alex Scott – walking out in solidarity with Lineker.
Match of the Day, usually hosted by Lineker, ran for only 20 minutes on Saturday, with no commentary or analysis. The sunday edition only ran for 15 minutes.
In a u-turn this morning the BBC released two statements from Lineker and the director-general, confirming the host's return.
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Mr Lineker said: “I am glad that we have found a way forward. I support this review and look forward to getting back on air.”
Mr Davie said: “Everyone recognises this has been a difficult period for staff, contributors, presenters and, most importantly, our audiences. I apologise for this. The potential confusion caused by the grey areas of the BBC’s social media guidance that was introduced in 2020 is recognised. I want to get matters resolved and our sport content back on air.
“Impartiality is important to the BBC. It is also important to the public. The BBC has a commitment to impartiality in its Charter and a commitment to freedom of expression. That is a difficult balancing act to get right where people are subject to different contracts and on air positions, and with different audience and social media profiles. The BBC’s social media guidance is designed to help manage these sometimes difficult challenges and I am aware there is a need to ensure that the guidance is up to this task. It should be clear, proportionate, and appropriate.
“Accordingly, we are announcing a review led by an independent expert – reporting to the BBC – on its existing social media guidance, with a particular focus on how it applies to freelancers outside news and current affairs. The BBC and myself are aware that Gary is in favour of such a review.
“Shortly, the BBC will announce who will conduct that review. Whilst this work is undertaken, the BBC’s current social media guidance remains in place.
“Gary is a valued part of the BBC and I know how much the BBC means to Gary, and I look forward to him presenting our coverage this coming weekend.”
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