Loose Women has been hit with over 211 Ofcom complaints as the panelists clashed during a segment talking about racism at the Ukrainian border.
During a debate on the ITV daytime talk show, the panelists Charlene White and Janet Street-Porter bumped heads in a heated discussion.
The ladies had shared their opinions about the racism experienced by some refugees as they tried to flee Ukraine in the wake of Russia’s invasion, with Charlene being furious with Janet.
Ofcom received 211 complaints about the segment which aired on ITV on March 1.
Viewers were convinced Janet was trying to “play down” the racism some had experienced at the borders and took to Ofcom to complain over her comments.
(Image: ITV)
180 complaints were made about comments made as the pair discussed minority ethnic refugees fleeing Ukraine, whilst 33 complaints related to a discussion about racism and the crisis in Ukraine.
In the segment, Charlene addressed the problem faced by some refugees
She said: “Because you’ve got thousands of Black, Asian, Syrian, Arab students and workers who have also been trying to get out of Ukraine and have been prevented from doing so due to the incessant racism that they have experienced.
“They’ve not been allowed to go through the border into Poland from example, where they’ve been pushed back.”
(Image: ITV)
Detailing struggling refugees, she added: “There are posters up saying no black … It really does shine a light on the fact that it doesn’t matter how devastated someone is, how scared somebody is, it seems like there’s always time for one of the worst traits of society.”
Her co-panelist Janet Street-Porter responded in a way that sparked anger from viewers, as she appeared to dismiss Charlene’s comments and suggested that Poland had “exceeded all expectations.”
She added: “I hear what you’re saying and I completely understand it.
“On the news last night, they did show how some of the students talking about how badly they had been treated and the effort it had taken for them to cross the border.
“But I also think that Poland has exceeded all expectations in accepting 150,000 refugees.”
(Image: ITV)
Charlene replied: “Oh my goodness! I understand that – but if you have thousands of refugees, you can’t stand there and say oh you 50 people come in, you four people with darker skin sorry.”
After the segment Charlene was applauded while Janet was shunned by viewers.
One wrote: “Love what Charlene is highlighting on Loose Women. You need to remove Janet from your panel immediately, she has no compassion and is a troublemaker. Do the right thing.”
Another penned: “Charlene said what needed to be said. If people can’t handle it that’s their own cup of tea! Thank you for highlighting what is going on.”
Within one week of it airing, the show received 211 Ofcom complaints.
Loose Women airs weekdays at 12.30pm on ITV.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
