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Gary Lineker Tweets message of support to refugees moments after BBC announces apology

13 Mar 2023 3 minute read
Match Of The Day host Gary Lineker leaves his home in London – Photo: James Manning

Gary Lineker has Tweeted a message of support to refugees just moments after the BBC announced he would return as a presenter for Match of the Day following a row over impartiality.

Lineker Tweeted a thread after his return to the BBC was announced which included a message of support to asylum seekers caught up in the UK Government’s plans to crack down on Channel crossings in small boats.

The Tweet said: “A final thought: however difficult the last few days have been, it simply doesn’t compare to having to flee your home from persecution or war to seek refuge in a land far away. It’s heartwarming to have seen the empathy towards their plight from so many of you.

“We remain a country of predominantly tolerant, welcoming and generous people. Thank you.”

Apology

The former footballer did not appear on MOTD on Saturday after he was told to stand down from the role when he compared language used to launch the Government asylum seeker policy with 1930s Germany in a Tweet.

This morning, BBC director-general Tim Davie apologised for the disruption to the weekend’s football coverage and confirmed Lineker would return as a presenter.

The BBC Board said in a statement: “The Board welcomes the fact that the executive has reached an agreement following the disruption of the weekend.

“Impartiality is a cornerstone of the BBC. We believe this is the right time to look at the clarity of the BBC’s social media guidance and how it is applied.

“We will support the executive in its continuing work to ensure the organisation delivers world-class, impartial content for all audiences.”

Match Of The Day host Gary Lineker leaves his home in London with his dog. – Photo: James Manning

Common sense

Taking his dog out for a walk, the Match Of The Day host told reporters: “I’ve already said what I’m going to say on Twitter.

“If I say anything more now it just encourages people to doorstep me.”

Mr Lineker refused to respond when he was asked: “Do you stand by what you said?”, “Have you won?”, “Is this a victory for common sense?” and “Has Tim Davie apologised to you personally?”.

As photographers took pictures, he said: “Right that’s enough – you’ve got your pictures”.


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Mab Meirion
Mab Meirion
1 year ago

Gary, I could get to like you…

Next time you see Ryan Reynolds see if you can come to some arrangement, you are meant for each other…

Kerry Davies
Kerry Davies
1 year ago

And fresh in from the House of Lords.
 Lord Dannatt – former Chief of the General Staff to UK Armed Services and military adviser to David Cameron in opposition said:

This government is beginning to look like an ostrich over defence spending.

The parallels to the 1930s grow stronger — a threat from a dictator in Europe and a refusal to reinvest or rearm.

Suella Braverman has refused to comment.

Mab Meirion
Mab Meirion
1 year ago
Reply to  Kerry Davies

I think we know that the Royal Navy cannot stand her and Penny should read a very rare little book from the 40’s called ‘How to be a Naval Officer’ it might just save her soul…

Kerry Davies
Kerry Davies
1 year ago

Lineker taking the Twin Town approach to the reptiles of the Press.
“Can we have a taxi to Cwmdonkin Bowls club, please?”
“8%$£&**! I’m busy.”
“Rightio, thank you very much.”

Iago Prydderch
Iago Prydderch
1 year ago

In the interest of fairness I’m looking forward to seeing Huw Edwards post photos of the Welsh flag on social media and to comment on whatever he likes.

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