Ofcom has confirmed it will not pursue the 705 complaints received over Gary Neville's live comments on ITV before the World Cup final. The regulator stated that his unscripted remarks were part of a wider discussion about Qatari government policies, which gave due weight to a range of views.
During the broadcast, the former England footballer described working conditions in Qatar as 'abhorrent' and criticised the UK government for 'demonising' striking rail workers and nurses, whom he said were paid a 'pittance'. ITV clarified that Neville was expressing his personal views, which were not endorsed by the broadcaster.
Ofcom has issued guidance to ITV reminding them of due impartiality obligations, and the broadcaster has assured the regulator that presenters and studio guests will be reminded of these rules. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had previously stated that football audiences did not want to hear Neville discuss politics.
Neville has faced scrutiny for working with Qatari broadcaster beIN during the tournament, which he defended by saying it allowed him to highlight issues in host countries. He has also joined Labour and appeared at the party's conference, though he has ruled out becoming a politician.
