The row over Gary Lineker’s social media use, with regards to the BBC Editorial Guidelines, generated high media interest, as well as reaction from politicians from across the political spectrum and sporting personalities;  this also caused disruption to the BBC Sport scheduling over the weekend of Mr Lineker’s suspension.  This was a story of significance and we legitimately reported on the impact for the BBC 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.  This was primarily a media story, and our coverage focused on the issues highlighted over freedom of speech and BBC impartiality.  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.