Gary Lineker criticised over Rwanda comments in impartiality row
The blog section is written in challenging English. Here is the rewritten version using different words: The source of the image used in this blog section is Ian Walton.
Fresh inquiries are being raised about the recent impartiality regulations set out by BBC.
Gary Lineker received new negative feedback for supporting a movement that demands the removal of the government's proposal to relocate refugees to Rwanda.
He joined forces with fellow celebrities in signing an open letter urging politicians to devise a just and equitable strategy for refugees.
Grant Shapps, who is in charge of defence, raised doubts about whether the presenter of Match of the Day should express their opinions on political matters.
According to the BBC, Lineker has the liberty to participate in schemes for external entities as long as they don't collide with his work at the BBC.
According to the statement, any contributions made should not violate the rules regarding conflicts of interest, as well as refrain from causing harm to BBC's reputation.
According to the BBC, Lineker frequently offers his input or thoughts on similar projects. The news outlet went on to state that his recent remarks were made within a letter and not via social media.
The missive has been made public on the Together With Refugees campaign coalition's website during the same week that Members of Parliament will deliberate on the Safety of Rwanda Bill. This legislation is being put forth again by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in an effort to implement the program after it was dismissed by the Supreme Court in the previous month.
Certain Members of Parliament have alleged that Lineker, who is the top earner among publicly disclosed BBC employees, has violated guidelines that prohibit him from getting involved in political affairs of any party.
According to Mr Shapps, the best thing for him to do is to concentrate solely on football instead of getting himself involved in other areas. He mentioned that signing letters wasn't enough and it would be more beneficial for him to channel his energy towards football.
Following the release of the letter, Jonathan Gullis, a member of the Conservative Party, expressed his concern regarding Gary Lineker's violation of BBC's impartiality regulations.
Nonetheless, Lineker replied with the statement: "It appears that Jonathan may not have informed himself of the updated regulations… or perhaps he didn't understand them after they were relayed to him by someone else?"
Regarding the guidelines on fairness in social media, the BBC stated that individuals may express their opinions on significant matters. However, they should remain courteous and refrain from attacking someone's personality. We address any concerns raised with the hosts when needed.
The collective message, organized by Together With Refugees, emphasizes the necessity for a fresh approach that aligns with the wishes of the UK public.
According to the article, the government is making efforts to expel individuals escaping from persecution to Rwanda even though the country's highest court has declared the plan illegal.
The written communication criticized the refugee system of the UK, stating that it has become increasingly unsympathetic, disorganized, and expensive.
The picture for this post was taken by Hannah McKay.
The Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps, has a completely different point of view from Lineker.
Some additional individuals who have signed on are performers Brian Cox and David Morrissey, comedian Suzi Ruffell, chef Big Zuu from television, and advocate for women's rights Helen Pankhurst.
Lineker, along with a few others, provided individual quotes for the press release of the organization. In his statement, he mentioned the necessity for a new system that aligns with the decisions of the British public, who have been welcoming, donating, and volunteering within their respective communities.
This is the reason why I am supporting this fresh movement - because equity can genuinely commence from this point.
Lee Anderson, the deputy chairman of the Conservatives, stated to the Daily Mail that he agrees with Gary on the necessity of having a system that accurately reflects the desires of the British public. The people are calling for an end to the boats and a message for overpaid individuals selling crisps to be silent. For once, Gary's opinion aligns with what the majority of the population desires.
In the past, the BBC mentioned that Lineker's prominent status brought extra duties.
Since 2020, the BBC has implemented social media rules for its staff in news and current affairs to safeguard its commitment to neutrality.
At the beginning of this year, they updated the way in which those rules should be implemented for other employees and independent contractors.
This occurred when people criticized Lineker's remarks regarding Suella Braverman, the previous Home Secretary, back in March. This was subsequent to a number of well-known BBC Sports presenters, analysts, and experts declining to work on projects to show their solidarity with Lineker's belief that the employee instructions were not relevant to him.
The BBC recently conducted a review and identified a group of individuals, including Lineker, as their "flagship presenters".
Individuals who host prominent programs that do not fall under the category of news or current events are considered presenters. These public figures possess a distinct duty to uphold the BBC's impartiality, due to their substantial presence on the network.
The main focus of the BBC's guidelines for social media was mainly aimed at those working in the News and Current Affairs department. However, it also applied to other BBC staff members. In September, the guidelines were revised and everyone who is affiliated with the BBC on social media platforms was expected to demonstrate respect and polite behavior.
The picture above is credited to Nick Potts.
Lineker endorsed the fresh social media guidelines by BBC.
As a top presenter, Lineker has been given more leeway to share his views on important topics according to the regulations. However, he must be careful not to engage in any political campaigning which the BBC deems inappropriate.
The latest instructions also acknowledge the significance of liberty of speech. However, they emphasize that during a show's airing, and for two weeks before and after the program, hosts of major broadcasts must refrain from advocating or criticizing a political organization.
It is important to avoid voicing negative opinions about specific UK politicians and refrain from discussing topics of political contention during the election season (which is not currently happening). It is also advised not to assume an official position with a campaigning organization.
After the new set of guidelines were released in September, Lineker acknowledged and reacted positively on X by stating that the fresh regulations seemed "logical and reasonable".
