Former soccer star Gary Lineker was suspended until further notice on Friday after criticizing the UK government's new immigration policy on Twitter.
Among other things, he compared some of the government's formulations with those of Nazi Germany.
Lineker, who led the BBC's "Match of the Day" program for 25 years, must "stay away from taking a position on party political issues," according to the BBC.
The statement has stirred emotions - even among politicians.
Lucy Powell, the shadow government's culture, media and sport minister likens it to a "complete mess" where the BBC has capitulated to a Conservative-inspired cancellation campaign.
She urges the BBC to be careful and not go against its own intention to be objective.
"Crossed the line"
Labor MP Yvette Cooper says the incident is primarily a matter between Gary Lineker and the BBC.
- But I am worried that this row is being used by the government to take the focus away from their own policy failures, such as the fact that we have not got a big and strong enough new deal with France.
Conservative MP Brendan Clarke-Smith says Gary Lineker crossed the line with his comments:
- I don't want to silence anyone's opinion.
But he has clearly crossed a line here, even though he (Lineker) will claim he is not a political commentator or newscaster.
I mean what he said was grossly offensive and he shows no remorse whatsoever for it, says Brendan Clarke-Smith.
See summary of politicians' opinions above.