Controversial BBC presenter James Whale has ignited a firestorm after telling former Loose Women star Saira Khan to "go back to Pakistan" during a live radio debate. The shocking remark came as the pair clashed over immigration policies on Whale's Surrey-based show.
Heated Exchange Goes Viral
Listeners were stunned when the 72-year-old broadcaster interrupted Khan's critique of UK immigration rhetoric with the inflammatory comment. Khan – who was born in Britain to Pakistani immigrant parents – immediately challenged Whale, asking if he understood how offensive his words were.
Backlash and Apology
The incident quickly spread across social media, with many condemning Whale's remarks as racist. The BBC has since issued a statement calling the comment "unacceptable," while Whale offered a qualified apology claiming his words were "taken out of context."
This isn't the first controversy for the outspoken presenter. Whale previously faced suspension in 2008 for urging listeners to vote against then-Mayor of London Ken Livingstone.
Khan's Powerful Response
In an emotional Twitter thread, Khan wrote: "When someone tells you to 'go back home,' it cuts deep. Britain is my home – I was born here, raised here, and have contributed to this country my entire life." The businesswoman and television personality has become a prominent voice against racism in British media.
The BBC confirms it is reviewing the incident as part of its editorial standards process.
