Summary of complaint
We received complaints from people who felt our coverage of the row over Gary Lineker’s social media use was excessive, and that our reporting of this story should have focused more on the Illegal Migration Bill, and criticism it has received.
Our response
The row over Gary Lineker’s social media use, with regards to the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Editorial Guidelines, generated high media interest, as well as reaction from politicians from across the political spectrumΒ andΒ sporting personalities;Β this also caused disruption to the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Sport scheduling over the weekend of Mr Lineker’s suspension.Β This was a story of significance and we legitimately reported on the impact for the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ and Mr Lineker. However, we continued to report on many other stories of national and international importance, including the cost of living crisis and the collapse of US Silicon Valley Bank.
Our coverage made clear the context, explaining the content of Mr Lineker’s tweet, and his criticism of the government’s new asylum policy.Β This was primarily a media story, and our coverage focused on the issues highlighted over freedom of speech and Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ impartiality.Β We have separately reported in detail on the government’s Illegal Migration Bill, offering comprehensive scrutiny of the legal, political and humanitarian implications, and featuring a wide range of views from those both critical and supportive of the proposals.
We believe our coverage of this story has been proportionate, fair and duly impartial.Β