http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/3404715.stm
Kilroy quitting as BBC presenter

Police are investigating Mr Kilroy-Silk's article after a CRE complaint
Robert Kilroy-Silk has quit his role as a BBC talk show host in the wake of the row over a newspaper article in which he criticised Arabs.

The show, which the ex-MP had presented for 17 years, was suspended after the Sunday Express piece was published.

The article, which described Arabs as "suicide bombers, limb amputators, women repressors", sparked a debate about freedom of speech.

In a statement, Mr Kilroy-Silk said the time was right for him to leave.

I believe my decision is the right way to resolve the situation

Robert Kilroy-Silk

"I will continue to lead the Kilroy Television Company Ltd and in addition to our existing commitments to the BBC, we will be bringing new ideas and programmes to the BBC and other broadcasters," he said.

"I have been overwhelmed by the support from the general public, and I continue to believe that it is my right to express my views, however uncomfortable they may be.

"However, I recognise the difficulties this has caused the BBC, and I believe my decision is the right way to resolve the situation," he added.

Critics had accused the BBC of gagging Mr Kilroy-Silk by suspending his BBC One show, but Director of BBC Television Jana Bennett insisted the corporation's decision had not been about freedom of speech.

She said: "Presenters of this kind of programme have a responsibility to uphold the BBC's impartiality.

"This does not mean that people who express highly controversial views are not welcome on the BBC but they cannot be presenters of a news, current affairs or topical discussion programme."

She said the BBC was working on a new version of the topical discussion programme, which will continue to be produced by the team at the Kilroy Television Company Ltd.

The corporation hopes it will be back on BBC One in the next few weeks with guest presenters hosting the show, Ms Bennett added.