91Èȱ¬

Yes, we are so tolerant and fair that anyone has the right to broadcast any programme regardless of its effects as a human car-crash. We are so tolerant and fair that the human-baiting tendency in television programming extends even unto our esteemed leaders and the politics they espouse. So much of our news coverage as well as BB, carries this fault of always wanting to make individuals look bad. Politics, football, music, you name it are all run through with the 'Celeb' culture. The only thing you can do with alleged celebs is tear them down.

Bullying perhaps yes but racism no, how politicians paly to the forum on a subject that is un founded in my opinion. Oh does anyone recall Jermaie Jackson calling individuals in the BB house "white trailer trash" Hmmmm how that comment appears to have been missed.

I am so fed up with this 'racism' palaver. We are allowed to joke about Scots, Irish, Welsh, Catholics and more - but the minute someone makes even a veiled (no pun intended) reference about Asians or Muslims, all hell breaks out. We are not tolerent until we ALL develop the ability to lose the chips from our shoulders.

It's a shame, but events such as those on Celeb Big Brother are just those you should expect from reality TV. If you place the average person under the spotlight (and let's face it, this lot are pretty average), they experience extremes of stress and their prejudices, which they would usually - you'd hope - try and keep under wraps will come out. So, indeed, will the sort of tribalism that seems to be taking place here. Channel 4 and the production company are entirely responsible for the output and if they can't control it so that it does not offend against the laws of the land, then it should be taken off the air. Then the police should consider whether any crimes have been commited and if so, irrespective of whether it was in the guise of entertainment, the culprits should be prosecuted. That would also lend a refreshing reality to the lives of these 'celebrities'.

Racism is abhorrent in any form. So is BB so let's rid ourselves of the like before GB wakes up.

I think it correctly displays the amount of ignorance we British can actually be sometimes!

Speaking as a white london born and bred individual, I've encountered so many people from all walks of life in this country display in one way or another predudice's against many people from different backgrounds or if they're not from the same class or status. A shame that this happens still in our society but happens it does!!

It goes to show that, despite the growing furore surrounding the Big Brother show, the producers themselves have still opted to play the 'ratings means all' card instead of doing the decent thing & warning /evicting those responcible..Ratings over common sence/morals i suppose!!!

I live in despair that we will never ever learn & instead opt for plain old ignorance!

If Gordon Brown wants to be a World statesman I suggest he resigns from parliament and gets a job with the UN or EU. If he becomes PM I would prefer he spends most of his time sorting out the problems of the country for which he is PM, like; the 91Èȱ¬ Office, crime, education, immigration, the NHS, pensions, the environment, the roads, the trains, the airports, etc.
However I suspect his heart remains in the Treasury and he will spend his (brief) premiership interfering with the puppet he appoints Chancellor (any thoughts Nick?) and strutting around the World saying look and listen to me because I'm very impotent (sic).

Nick,

Just wondering, although it shouldn't really be, if the Big Brother thing will affect the UK government's hopes to secure a fair playing ground in Vodafone's bid for India's fourth largest mobile operator.

Racism? Please! Unfortunately the empty headed antics of a bunch of small minded, unworldly so-called "celebrities" in the Big Brother household, unfortunatly reflect the coming of age of the new generation of society in Britain today. Their remarks are not racist. Simply ignorant and unwilling to learn about different cultures so gang up together in order to stay in their comfort zone where they do not feel threatened. Sad.

The point that seems to be missed is that Big Brother is damaging Britain's reputation precisely because it broadcasting racism / bullying as "entertainment" for the masses. This kind of TV is hardly going to enhance Britain's image in the wider world, now is it?

Why is that we have to justify ourselves to India on matters of tolerance?? These ignorant chav girls on Celebrity Big Brother do not speak for the majority of Britians or even our politicans!

On the subject of tolerance and fairness. Where is that prevalent in India when we consider their disgusting caste system or their huge human rights failings when it comes to people of other religious faiths (treatment of Muslims and Buddhists).

Maybe India should get it's own house in order before it starts lecturing othe nations and their politicans on fair treatment of people!
)

The BB issue clearly isn't racism (that's why you and others use the phrase, alleged racism). There aren't racist taunts towards Shilpa, just a few girls in a gang not liking another girl and being a little nasty with her; just as you get in every single series of BB and in every group whether it be work, school or wherever.

The row may be damaging Britain's reputation, but that's thanks to "News" corporation's spreading the slightly darker side of human nature that BB brings out in people as misdirected news.

how wonderful to live in such a progressive country that we can have this delightful show t entertain us! Whoops it might effect relations and therefore trade...may be that old fashioned term responsibility might be dusted off and used!
as for the term celeb......Jade Danielle and Jo...I dont think they have any reputation or celebrity to tear down!

Three British contestants on a reality TV show make racist remarks.

Ten thousand British people write in to complain about it.

How exactly does that damage Britain's reputation?

It's an interesting scenario, nonetheless. The real question of course is whether anyone will do anything about it. Will Channel 4 take BB down? Will Gordon Brown take action? Will the MP's like Vaz use BB as a platform to raise other incidences of racism. Or is everyone apologising, reprimanding to be viewed as politically-corrent or should I say, election-worthy.

I am no fan of political correctness, but it is appalling that Channel 4 is broadcasting racist bullying. And of course it is damaging to our image abroad. The fact that BB is a programme for dimwits, doesn't stop it reflecting badly on our national character. Reminds me of Gandhi's answer when they asked him what he thought of Western Civilisation - "That would be a good idea."

A programme that is notable for its absence of intellectual content is causing a diplomatic incident? Anyone who knows the details of this is effectively admitting watching the drivel; that is embarrasing for them. All it demonstrates is that Britain has it's share of incompetent idiots just as any country does.

The real question should be why the British government, the Indian government and every major broadsheet and tabloid is determined to give Channel 4 so much free publicity that they will inevitably show nother series of this durge.

It's important not to get carried away with the hysteria here. I've not seen the show myself (not being a fan of the whole celebrity culture thing), but I've heard differing opinions.

Is it bullying? Or is it racism? Whilst neither is acceptable, there is a difference. I don't envy Channel 4 at all. They're not far off being in a no-win situation here.

If it is racism, they need to kick out the relevant housemates. If it isn't, they need to be careful of going along with the lynch mob.

Either way, there will be people who think they've done the wrong thing.

I think what would be doing the most damage to Britain's reputation is that such a non-issue is being blown out of all proportion.

In most sensible countries, this would be a non-story.

As I do not watch BB because it is one of the must pointless shows on at the moment, I am not sure if there were actual examples of racism. However, the details discussed by the press are NOT racist.

And from some of the comments made by people who have watched the show it appears that the "racist" comments have been made by the "victim" as well.

It is a trivial matter at one level, but it is a sign of just how low our popular culture has sank.

The idea that the thoughts of Jade Goody would be broadcast to 4 million people in one of the UK's top TV show as mainstream entertainment is the sort of thing that not so long ago featured in science fiction films (anybody seen the pretend adverts in the film 'Robocob'.

I'm not surprise the Indians find it offensive. It is the thoughts of stupid people in the pub or on the bus turned into popular entertainment.

I think everyone needs to take a step back here and realise that Big Brother is not representative of Britain in any way. As far as I can tell, the people making these comments are an ex-beauty queen who lost her title as she had slept with a judge, a former member of S Club 7 and a woman who's whole career is based on the fact she is shockingly ignorant (and her mother). Not exactly the cream of British society. I suggest to make up for her ordeal, Shilpa gets to spend a month with Hugh Grant being driven round Britain in an E-Type Jaguar to show her what the country is all about. She needs to sack her manager/agent first of course.

Hello Nick

I am surprised at Channel 4 (and especially in the current political climate) allowing comments made by contestants which even hint at racism to be aired.

Having seen the programme before, entire conversations are muted (for example if flippant but potentially defamatory remarks are made about any non-contestant eg another celebrity) on occasions and I understand the programme has a 15 minute delay on the live feed for a rolling assessment of what can be 'let out'.

It is entirely possible that the comments reported were not intended to be racially malicious. I understand that Ms Shetty and the 'perpetrators' - the latter of whom seem to have a 'playground mentality' generally and in what they have apparently said - don't really get along.

However, this is a major faux pas for 4 not to err on the side of caution by not airing the remarks and to privately reprimand the housemates concerned.

We all appreciate moments of tension between housemates sell the show, but the producers ought really to have consulted their lawyers a little more closely on this occasion.

BB is showing how young people communicate and discuss issues that they are exposed to. Also, possibly, how a lot of adults communicate within the confines of their comfort zone and outside the PC boundary of our now expected society. People should be able to freely voice their points of view without having to worry about this PC environment that now exists and is becoming too restrictive. What ever happened to our land of free speech?

I find it difficult to believe that anybody could assume that Britain is represented by a small trio of spoilt misfits on a reality television show. If these trivial events do have major consequences, then I would have an equally low opinion of any individual or institution that would blame our society, and not the people who actually made the comments. Racism was not invented by the British...

What has happened to the word 'alleged'? All the talk is that the allegations of racism on Channel 4's Big Brother program have been accepted and proved. Nothing could be further from the truth. MP Keith Vaz should be aware of Britain's very proud policy that all are innocent until proved guilty. The trivial comments made by these Big Brother people would never be accepted as evidence of racism in a court of law in this fine country. Keith Best should know better, isn't he trained in law?

If these diplomats have seen what passes for fairness under a Labour Government Douglas Alexander's Dealing(ignoring) The West Lothian Question or Jack Straw's Party Funding proposals(equality for all but Labour is more equal than others), or Hazel Blears and Patricia Hewitt in terms of Political healthcare decisions(if you live in a Tory constituency bye bye to your A&E) then I can't really blame the Indian Government if they don't take Gordon's word for it.

What's happening in the Big Brother House isn't racism, it's simply bullying. The housemates are "picking on" Shilpa because she's different. ONE difference is her skin but that's not all.

The same thing happens in offices and social gatherings across the country. Little groups form and then gossip between themselves about "the fat one in accounts" or the "ginger one on reception."

I'm sure, if you get a group of MPs together they'd do exactly the same. (Indeed, isn't the Whips Office run on the basis of bullying others to vote a certain way??)

I'm not, by the way, condoning the bullying. I simply don't think it's racism and isn't something our MPs should be wasting time discussing. Sort out your own House first before worrying about the Big Brother House!

It certainly is surreal that Big Brother is mentioned in such dignified circumstances, alongside a moving quotation of Ghandi in particular. However, I would have thought that with or without racist slurs, celebrity big brother was enough to put people off British culture.

My real worry is that GB will end up having to watch some celebrity BB in order to be properly briefed. If there is anything that will make him despair, give up and join the board of a big multinational and make a few million for himself then that's it.

"Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to be on big brother."

Doesn't really have the ring of nobility to it.

Surreal but true!

I agree totally, but surely if politicians can't rise above a bit of female squabbling and jealousy then what hope is there for the rest of us decent folk!

To be honest I've never seen such a petty situation get so out of hand, is this for real or am I dreaming??? If this is the so called world stage today I'm emigrating to Mars...

Perhaps Cleo should get up and remind everyone of Kenny Everetts famous Conservative Party blunder when he stood up and pronounced "lets bomb Russia". That would put the whole thing in perspective.

Once again the silent are the majority. Millions watch Big Brother yet a few thousand have complained about comments that happen every day in the UK and it gets blown out of all proportion. What does stand out is the gulf between policiticans and everyday life. You here these comments on buses, in public and we live in a democracy with a right to free speech. The people that have complained about this issue would do well to leave the UK as they are clearly not tolerant and are wasting everyones time. They are the ones damaging britain as they appear as extremists jumping on every comment made and making an issue of it.

It's ridiculous that Gordon Brown and Keith Vaz are discussing this programme!

What next, education policy advised by "I'm A Celebrity" stars Jordan and Peter Andre? Health decided by Major James Hewitt?

It's certainly bullying, a portion of it is racism, but why don't the politicians make this much of a stink about issues like this in real life?

I believe that the contestants on the show would be just as nasty irrelevant of the background of any other contestant. Previous series of Big Brother have proven this to be the case. While I agree this is still bullying and should not be tolerated, I do not believe this is a racial issue. I dislike how politicians and the like have jumped on the issue without what can only be seen as lack of first hand research.

What is happenning on big brother- and i know as an avid viewer- is not racism just a combination of differences in personality, cultural ignorance, and 'pressure cooker' conditions which lead to confrontation. There has been no racism displayed on big brother- housemates have not been discriminatory to Shilpa because she is Indian- they may have been because they don't like her but that is completely different. It is partly the fault of this govt that so many complaints have been made because it is the extenet to which they have instilled 'political correctness' in so many people that they are percieving these circumstances as racist, when they are clearly not.

It is also absurd that Gordon Brown is becoming involved in such matters, there have been complaints but let ofcom investigate and see what the outcome is. It is clearly another example of poltiicians wanting to get involved in popular cultute when they are so far behind it in their unreal westminster village, that they have no chance of ever appealing to those in popular culture as they are.

Hang on, the Chancellor is commenting about Big Brother? How about explaining why I can't afford to get onto the property ladder despite earning well above the national average? How about explaining why, if inflation rises are down to oil,is the UK so much higher than our competitors?

Gordon Brown should start talking to us about the economy. I'm worried about the economy not about Big Brother.

Calling another contestant a dog is not an "alleged" racism but a real one. Goody should have been arrested if Briton was a civilized nation.

So, this non-racsist bullying is damaging to Britain's reputation - hopefully this will deter all the many asylum seekers who reach our shores.

Perhaps politics is trivialised whenever there are difficult and abstract problems to be solved as all the language turns into declarations of sensitivity and metaphorical labelling of the problem. Are the diplomats concerned that racism is damaging actual people and the productivity of the country? It's so much easier and more comfortable to focus on reputation.

This is not trival. It is real people being really racist and no less so for taking place when filmed. Because Big Brother films 24/7 for a long time participants cannot keep their TV masks on for the whole time. And what this has revealed is the ease with which three white English girls slip into racial abuse making clear the prejudice and igorance through which they view the world.

Are we to imagine that this is exceptional?

I have many non-white professional colleages from across the world and many of them just take it as read that in England they will be refused seats in restaurants or encounter aggression as they walk about minding their business. The rest of us do not experience this, we can't really see it and we find it hard to believe.

In this case reality TV has revealed an ugly part of the real England.Are we to blame the television programmme and punish the messenger?

Of course it is important that we are seen as non racist and fair, but are the comments actually about race? I'm not convinced. Jo's comment about undercooked food crossed a line, but the rest just seems like 'normal' bullying and any comments are only being taken as racist because different races are involved. Let's not forget that Jade was warned on BB before that her behaviour was bullying towards another housemate (who was white, but a beautiful and composed woman like Shilpa). Surely the assumption that the bullying is racist due to Shilpa being indian is racist itself? It is more likely some level of jealousy from Jade and more mysogynistic than racist.

Also, it's celebrity big brother. Get a grip.

I think i may be the only person who thinks this has all been blown way out of proportion. Yes what is going on in the big brother house in unnacceptable, but what else can we expect from those people, who can at best be described as a little slow.

Racism or bullying, neither is to be tolerated.
The only comment I am going to make is that when Jackiey (sic) made the comments about Shilpa being "The Indian" the country was in uproar. Personally, the next time someone calls Gordon Brown "Scottish", I hope the country comes up with circa 14,000 complaints of stereo typing/racism/bullying then...

I hope some good can come of this. Namely, that it makes this programme far too much of a liability for Channel 4 to broadcast and they take the decision to drop it quietly after this run and never show it again. That's the celebrity version, AND the one that makes non-entities into celebrities.

There's nothing trivial about a senior government minister having to face the reality of how badly behaved a large minority of this country's citizens has grown up.

We have been told repeatedly for the past decade about the huge government "investment" in schooling and yet we witness on our screens young people who seem to have minimal education and personal culture behaving in an appalling manner.

So Brown wants Britain to be seen as fair and tolerant. How about wanting Britain to actually be fair? Britain is already tolerant in that it tolerates other races ie it puts up with them. I feel terribly sorry for what Shilpa has gone through. However, I'm really glad that CBB has opened the eyes of the world as to how things are for non-caucasians in the UK. What we have seen is a what you see in the workplace all over the UK. A talented non-caucasian, one or more caucasian bullies, and usually a much larger group of caucasians who know what is happening is wrong but think it is ok not to speak up or not take sides. Brown should not reassure people about Britain being fair to non-caucasians, because it isn't.

But damaged it already is. Middle class Ms. Shilpa Shetty has had very little contact with Britain's majority white-trash underclass; unlike some of us who have to face it day in day out. Ms. Shetty I hope you've learned your lesson: the English do not all have tea & crumpets at 6 o clock and certainly do not all have a high regard for propriety.

Mr Brown later asked the tolerant and egalitarian Indian masses "Can you tell me more about your caste system?"

Britains reputation? In a country where the caste system still enslaves millions, I fail utterly to see how a few comments from a very unqualified source has become an international incident.

Please stop!

Mr Brown has much more important things to do with his time than to comment on a bunch of entertainers who knew what they were letting themselves in for, and will let this run for as much as they can milk it for.

Global Warming, International Terrorism, Sea levels rising, Population explosion, Water Bubble, Food Bubble, Big Brother, War in Iraq.

Can you tell the odd one out?

Get a GRIP!

If a British citizen were referred to in another country as "The Brit" would they take offense? Would that be considered as a racial epithet? I don't think so. We all know much more abasing slurs and epithets for Asians and other minorities than "The Indian." Women call other women they don't like far worse than "dog" no matter what their race. Time for a little perspective on reality here. Is Britain tolerant? It tolerated foreign Imams openly recruiting and inciting terrorists to the point where they acted to blow up the London underground. There is a limit to what free people can and should tolerate. Does anyone in Britain still know where and how to draw the line?

What is now obvious or should be obvious to everyone is that Jade Goodey is the unacceptable face of the English and, like the witch that she is, should be burnt at the stake.

I agree: it is an offence to the intelligence of anyone, but my explanation is this: Gordon Brown feels concerned by this absurd episode because it discredits the progressiveness of his mellifluous British nationalism. The stress is in the 'SEEN AS': "I want Britain to be seen as a country of fairness and tolerance.

I wondered how low these disgusting relaity shows could sink, but now I've got my answer. BB has certainly revealed the dark side of British society, and shows that racism is always ready to rear its ugly head.

To quote Spiderman "With power, comes great responsibility".

When I was at school and we went on a sports tour, I was told "you are not just representing your school, but also your country". Multiply this a million times when you talk about a national celebrity. All celebrities are ambassadors for the country they originate from.

The celebrities representing Britain in this very trivial game show are probably not racist but are exposing the basest most evil human tendencies.

Of course it should not be an international story, but on the diplomatic scene, Jade Goody represents Britain. Do we really want that? I assume not. Why is she a celebrity? Because British citizens warm to her and spend money voting for her. Of course this reflects badly on Britian in the same way voting for George Bush apparently makes you a crazy dumb american.

Britian should be embracing India and China to share in the rapid technological growth there. Right now, the news spreading across the nation is that their very highly respected film star (she is considered to be genuinely nice over there) is being mistreated. Over here, British asians see a mimic for their own experience and have some evidence to wave at people.... and they will wave it at as many people as possible.

How odd. People seem to be confusing bullying and ignorance with racism.

None is acceptable in a civilised society, but they are very different things.

I think some may say that it is bullying or racism. I would like to call it cultural ignorance or unawareness.

Point is what we are doing to stop it. These (with closed brain jumping to conclude why a billion people are sick and thin) celebrities who are earning big sums by endorsing products (Do they deserve?) and still being ignorant at their mental level. Are they doing any good for the society? Do they deserve to be in their celebrity status? keeping themselves in their comfortable zone by having opinion about outside world as inferior and generalizing habits of more than billions of people under the blanket of a Nation is a shameful act.

The producers of this show are responsible for this more than anybody else.

What's most astonishing is the way you Nick Robinson and others in the media have given exaggerated coverage to these hyped-up allegations of racism on a television entertainment show, and then gone on to speculate about the psychology of prominent diplomats and politicians who have commented on the situation. Since you apparently know the PM's motivations, as well as the Chancellor's and the Government of India's, what can we say about your own psychology and motivations in giving extensive television and web commentary (accompanied by precious few real news facts) regarding these allegations?

Many people here seem more worried about the country's reputation than racism itself. They would be keen to revive censorship. Now, it is precisely complete freedom of speech what allows us diagnose the real levels of barbarism in a society.

I'm actually on the fence with regard to whether what is being said by contestant's is racist or not, it's certainly not clever and definately not PC but out and out racist I'm not sure.

Bullying however it certainly is and that should be condemed by everyone including C4 and BB!!!

Being a British Asian and an 'Indian' I did personally find Jackie's reference to Shilpna as 'the Indian' offensive especially in the context it was used, as did I find Jo's comments that'Indians are thin because they eat undercooked food' referring to a undercooked chicken Shilpa had made. These for me are very close to being racist comments.

In terms of making fun of how someone speak, the context which this was done by ALL contestants including Shilpa herself isn't for me racist, but certainly rude.

I do share the frustration of many of you that a show such as Big Brother has been elevated onto front pages of major Papers, the News, Parliment, foreign relations, its crazy!!

For this to have reached Parliment is unbelievable, especially given the number of critical issues that should be occupying our PM, deputy PM and MPs time.

What will be the outcome I wonder? Not much, other than C4 and BB's rating increasing of course!

Let's try to keep this in perspective, Jade et al do not represent the views of all of us Brittons.

I also watch the Dispatches program 'undercover mosques' and was horrified, I hope an inquiry into this will be launched sooner rather than later.

Surely, as a country we should be viewed on our reaction to what is happening on Big Brother. I have not watched it but have found myself drawn into this story.

The questions as to whether what is happening is racist or not is up to those with more knowledge than me over the events. But, again, whether it is or not, we should ask oursleves whether we agree with what we are seeing on our TV sets? It seems that a play-ground mentality has formed as far as i can tell, but can anyone say that Big Brother provides a realistic enviroment? Especially when filled with many "celebrities" most of whom I have never heard of.

Big Brother and what has happened in this show and previous series is up to channel4 and its creators to decide what to do with. But it comes back to our personal choice to decide whether we agree with the show and what takes place within' it. And you make that choice by or not watching, low figures the show goes. Personally I wouldn't be sad to see it go. The show runs from one crisis after another, and surely it is "car crash" TV. But people watch it so what do i know?

And if anyone is basing an opinion on our country based on a load of god knows what list celebs, well that their decision to make.

The things said on the show to Ms shipla would be illegal in any work place and in any professional sports so why not in a TV Show, I think Channel4 and ofcom should be blammed for not drawing lines. In India they see an indian being abused by an outsider and no officials taking any action but rather just saying its wrong. Its the same way as western people look at all muslims even though a few muslims do the wrong things.

We obviously need a redefinition of racism, because at the moment it is extremely ambiguous and is leading to more and more altercations between innocent people and the anti-racist brigade. Their power must be curtailed.

I think that all readers here who deny these were racist incidents are in denial (perhaps about their own racism). The fact is that any time you make a "joke" (never mind when you insult them) based on some characteristic of their race or ethnicity, its racist. No ifs and buts about that. Obviously there's different degrees of racism, and it may be worthwhile to pick your battles, but make no mistake about it - it is racist.

Does anyone care what Jade Goodie thinks. She is known for getting her boobs out in public and being one of the less sharp pencils in the box.

The really sad thing is that millions of people watch this rubbish which is specifically designed to give "entertainment" by selecting inmates that will fight with each other.....like a prize fight but without the blood.

The inmates know that the more outrageous they are, the greater their saleability after the event.

With regard to India. It is a country steeped in intolerance and hatred. The UK does not have a caste system nor has it ever had an organisation like the Bharatiya Janata Party in power that played on the Hindu/Moslem tensions to get and hold power including conniving in the murders of thousands of Moslems by mobs which were reciprocated.

The day I need Indian politicians (those not in prison for corruption), and Gordon Brown to give me a lecture on tolerance will be a strange day indeed.

It is good to see that in between his plans to reform the UN, Nato and World Bank Brown has time for noise.

I must admit that he has some grand plans which are particularly safe from his position of PM-in-waiting for a small island off the coast of Europe. His plans are about as likely to bear fruit as mine are towards Angelina Jolie.

What's far more important, and actually racist, is the continuing Muslim war against non-believers, as seen in the Dispatches report on the undercover mosque (which the 91Èȱ¬ cravenly refuses to report on)

So Nick, you can now exclusively reveal that Brown spends his time watching a trash programme called 'Big Brother'.

And there's me thinking that Brown actually is Big Brother.

I thought it funny, in an ironic way, to hear Jo from 'hit band' S Club and wossname talking about if it was the Indians or Chinese who eat with their hands... Eaten in a fast food 'restuarant' lately?

Interesting comments all - especially Andrew Tempest's (#16). Although bullying and racism in any situation is of concern, the wake-up call should be for the 'broadcasters' at Endemol (and C4) who keep churning out the mindless rubbish that is now the mainstay of British television, once the envy of the world... I wonder if Mark Frith, editor of Heat magazine and the other mindless, vapid idiots who have championed Jade Goody, her silicone implants and 'celebrity lifestyle' as some kind of success story might think a little more carefully about the company they keep and the people they promote in the future. Somehow I doubt it...

I don't know about the damage to our reputation for "fairness and tolerance", but with international exposure of the ugly, shrieking, foul-mouthed chav elemnts of our society, I do worry about the damage to our reputation for culture and sophistication.

It does sully the image of britain. I have stayed in england for 6 months and i did experince some racism mostly from the old people but that i guess was hangover from the empire days or raj days as we call them. But most of the people were kind to me. And i immensely enjoyed my time in england so all is not lost :). I guess the right way forward would be to make the younger generation aware of pitfalls of racism n other social evils

A new low for Channel 4 and BB.

A comment here says that British joke about Scots, British, Welsh and Irish are accepted and why not Asians. Don't people know it is an unwritten rule that you can be rascist against your own kind and be acceptable but not venture further.

All that said, small minded and ignorance comes to mind.

Where have those British values and institutions gone, which rest of the World admired and British people were proud of?

Channel-4 and the producer of BB have been so irresponsible is beyond Britishness. We will never watch Channel-4 ever again and are cancelling our contract with CarPhoneWare House who finance such a vulgar show.

i dont know why c4 in not reacting to all this...when the happy slapping kids take it up then may be they will..."its not rasisum but bulling" line wont work !...you just have to listen to the
anti-bulling phone line !!!!!

The outrageous, juvenile behaviour from several of the chav types present in the BB house should in no way be taken as representative of the people in the UK. I agree with those who say this behaviour is class-related and based on ignorance, not racism.

However, it seems strange to me when allegations of 'discrimination' are bandied about so freely when no mention has been made of the overt discrimination displayed when Carol Malone described Jackiey Goody as 'subnormal' when talking to Jermaine a few days ago.

Hello Nick,
It seems ridiculous that such a "Little Britain" show has caused so much outrage. Of course, the charming Indian lady should have known better than appear on such a disgusting television feature which relies on the lowest level of "chavs" possible. This lady has looks, good elecution and is obviously well bred, therefore a sitting duck for the ignorant creatures who were her house mates.
Concerning racism, I don't believe there was any, it was class prejudice brought about by justified feelings of inferiority. There is an old folk expression, "Lie down with dogs and you get up with fleas."

I abhor racism and pity Ms Shetty's position within the house.

Nonetheless, I can't help but feel a little exhilleration when the arguments pipe up because important truths about English culture and values are exposed and transmitted, relatively unmediated, to an audience around the world.

This is 'reality' rather than 'reputation' and it's high time the world saw us for what we are: a largely racist and ignorant populace with only a fabricated political veneer of tolerance, fairness and respectability.

It is absurd to blame Endemol. This is the vox populi. Deal with it.

Yes comments are flying from both ends.But its going too far when a person is called a dog.Its sad that so many ppl are still defending Danielle and Jade.Wrong is wrong.They're being nasty, hostile and bullying.Other members in the house such as H and Jermaine are in agreement that shilpa is being bullied, so why are we debating that? Its time to condemn women that have turned the idea of peace and respect towards other humans as a laughing joke.

Racism or not -I don't know,(knowing us women their motivations are probably more about jealousy & inadequacy). But on a personal, human -to- human level, I felt physically disgusted by the way that Ms Shetty was being hounded by these charming housemates. Tonight's episode just showed even more victimisation & bullying. What I cannot understand is that the others in the house do not take a stand over this; that also fills me with dismay. Yes many contributors on this forum have pointed out how ridiculous it is for us all to be commenting on something to tacky as Big Brother. I agree, however the goings -on in the BB house will no doubt also be the topic of conversation for school kids across the land... what influence does airing Ms Goody et al's views have on them?

People may say that Big Brother et al are not representative of the rest of Britain. This is technically correct but this and other shows frame perception and perception, folks, is reality. I’ve seen enough ignorance and rudeness in Britain from institutions, organisations, and people to think this is more than an isolated incident. It is the fashion.

Confucius encouraged people to seek out men and women of calibre. This is sound advice, as squabbling with ignorant and rude people is a waste of time. People don’t change unless they want to change, resources can be better deployed in building a better alternative, and there isn’t much anyone can do if you say no and ignore them.

Racism may be a motive but the ignorant and rude behaviour is indistinguishable from bullying and laziness. Personally, I prefer the company of my Indian, Chinese, and Japanese friends, or the Polish and Hungarian people who’ve served me in shops. They are more attentive and polite than any of my so-called Caucasian cousins.

Firstly can we get away from the frankly ridiculous idea that Gordon Brown watches (or has ever watched) Big Brother - he is simply addressing issues brought to his attention.

Should these issues have been brought to his attention? I'd say 'yes', with over 21,000 complaints this is now the most complained about TV programme ever broadcast in this country - it is a huge issue for many people, don't forget that for every complaint there are probably 10 more who didn't bother - is anyone seriously suggesting our politicians should ignore such a huge debate no matter how trivial the original source?

I'll be first in line for a pop at any of our current MPs, but lets harangue them for some of the fantastic tableau of errors and misjudgements they have actually made while in office, and not simply for answering leading questions

If you ask anyone if they approve of bullying what possible answer can they give other than "no"?

I WONT CALL IT RACIST. BUT THE LANGUAGE USED IS SURELY NOT BEFITTING ONE FOR CIVILISED PEOPLES ... FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION DOESNOT MEAN FREEDOM TO SAY ANYTHING ABT PEOPLE OR ISSUES.

THAT THIS HAPPENED IN THE MOTHER OF ALL DEMOCRACIES IS EVEN MORE UNFORTUNATE.

I THINK AN UNCONDITIONAL APOLOGY FROM THOSE WHO SAID THOSE CONDEMNABLE WORDS SHUD MATTERS TO REST.

I think we indians are too sissy and easily get hurt at every slur that may (or may not be) racially motivated. And somehow we do not mind the racial crap that is fed into us by our elders about different castes, subcastes, religions (especially muslims) and other races.

I am not even from the UK and nor do i watch the UK BB. After reading all about the stupid comments on Shilpa Shetty it leaves me appalled that Channel4 did not take corrective action when the issue actually started .....perhaps it was busy counting the $$$$ come in because of the rise in the people watching the show. Disrespect in any way or form should not be tolerated. And to people talking about the cast system in India things have changed in a BIG WAY and are definitely changing. Seems you all still have views from watching age old documentaries on their TVs and forming opinions. If you are a 100% sure only then make a comment if not its better to keep ones mouth shut

I'm absolutely floored at the amount of comments here that deny this is racism! Are you people absolutely daft?!

What is racism, if not singling out a person based on their race/nationality and making claims of superiority, also based on race? Please enlighten me. These witches told her she wanted whiter skin, as if to suggest light skin is somehow superior. They refuse to offer her the slightest bit of respect, even choosing to refer to her by her nationality rather than her name. If this isn't racist, I'd like to know exactly what is.

Additionally, making fun of "Welsh, Irish, Catholic," etc isn't racism. Catholicism isn't a race, you fools. This isn't just harmless joking...it's outright abuse! They are actively trying to bring this poor girl down and hurt her in every way possible.

Behavior of this kind is unforgivable regardless of where it shows up. Just because it's a sleazy reality show doesn't make it any more acceptable. I find it very disturbing that so many people find these comments to be anything but hopelessly racist and ignorant. I guess there are more racist people around me than I thought.

It's a dark day when Jade Goody can influence foreign policy but I think the whole situation was summed up best by Shilpa herself when she said to Jade "THIS (Big Brother) is your claim to fame".

Get a grip! This is just a stupid reality TV show for God's sake. What do people expect? You cannot sanitise reality. I my view, all these programmes should be taken off air - not because of this alleged "ism" or that, but because they are basically stupid and soften the brain. It is dumbed down Britain rather than racist Britain.

I think this demonstrates what happens when as a society we worship the air-head. Three of the people in that house are only there because one of them got famous for being unbelievably ignorant. This girl didn't know that they speak English in the USA.

I don't think that they are being racist - I doubt any of them could find India on a map, for all they know it is just northern Scotland - they are simply demonstrating their vast ignorance. Hopefully they are ensuring that they will never be seen on TV again. Alas I fear not.

"Raj wrote:
Calling another contestant a dog is not an "alleged" racism but a real one. Goody should have been arrested if Briton was a civilized nation.
"

Calling someone a dog is a racist statement? How so, perhaps you would care to explain such an absurd statement.

People who claim racism for everything actually cause much more harm then good. As some people will start to think that someone claiming to be racially targeted is just "crying wolf".

Women often call women dogs, it is NOT racist, if the target was not an Asian woman but a right woman then would it still be a racist statement?

From what I have seen on the web sites none of the statements are racist, ignorant yes but not racist, but just because the target is an Asian woman it is considered that she is being targeted because of her race not because the other women don't like her.

Ironically what should be considered "racism" is the assumption that the "white girls" don't like the Asian girl only because she is Asian. It after all suggests that people naturally assumes white people are racists - clear racial prejudice.

I wondeer what bad news is being buried whilst all this hoo ha about Big Brother is going on.

"Chris Shaw wrote:
How odd. People seem to be confusing bullying and ignorance with racism.

None is acceptable in a civilised society, but they are very different things.
"

So very true, it seems that just because the victim of this ignorant bullying is an Asian rather then "white" that this has suddenly became a "racial" matter.

I think the clearest case of racism here is the assumption that the "white" girls are acting the way they are because she is Asian, not because they just don't like her. Considering Jade's clear lack of intelligence I would not be surprised if she didn't even know she was talking to an Asian and just thought she was talking to someone who had come back from a holiday.

And isn't it time we dropped the Celebrity from the title - none of them are exactly famous, it is the usual mix of has-beans and never-weres.

"Aravindan Chinnaraja wrote:

Don't people know it is an unwritten rule that you can be rascist against your own kind and be acceptable but not venture further.

All that said, small minded and ignorance comes to mind.
"

The unwritten rule seems to be that you can be racist against "non-whites", but it is not racist when equivalent comments are made towards "whites". On a night out I have been the target of ~far~ worse comments made by a gang of Asian youths. At the time I was speaking with an Asian policeman and he just considered it to be drunken banter and not racist statements when I asked him if he could put a stop to it. I am sure if it had been the other way around it would have been considered racist.

In response to Chris Wills (8). I think I saw the new Chancellor on the edge of frame when GB was making his statement from India - Alistair Darling.

Just some thoughts

I agree that the bullying should not be tolerated and am sure that the 21000ish people complaining about it agree also.

Don't watch the blasted program so not really qualified to decide if it is racist or not. Laughed out loud at the people claiming that it demonstrated Britains darker side, what a sheltered world they live in!

While i agree that there is a very sad undercurrent of racial tension in the country at large, it should be dealt with maturely, such a trivial matter is hardly the forum to try and start a meaningful dialogue, its too short lived for one thing!

As for GB in India he should be honest, yes there is a question mark about some minor celebrities behaviour. Thats why the entire nation has gone into uproar at the thought, and in classic british style leapt to the defence of the 'underdog'. ( note to the PC brigade I'm aware thats a slightly dubious pun)

Though lets be honest if she has a tenth the style maturity and grace she's credited with in the news today, and I rather suspect she has more, 3 chavs should hardly be a challenge for her. If not well she has the british public, and as the iron duke said "they scare me!"

just read comment 64, so in addendum to my ( potentially unposted) previous comment I'd like to applaud him and his really rather rational view!

Did make me wonder if some sort of rating system , like the 'have your say' lot have is a possibility?

"Celebrity" a phony concept totally out of reality. Has this country gone mad when politicians across the spectrum react to such barmy televisions shows.
They should be asking who put the concept of this awful combination on air and for what motive?
Never watch it or the like never will!
Get a life.

This show is merely proving that there are a lot of ignorant people in our tolerant country.

It always embarrasses me to hear fellow citizens come out with these sorts of remarks on the tube, at work, in the pub, wherever.

The fact that this behaviour is being broadcast nationally, and reported internationally doesn't make it any worse. What it does is hold a mirror up to the British public whilst giving the rest of the world a valid opportunity to critisise a nation which is - in this instance - being represented by idiots.

Predictably it seems that the majority of Brits don't like the behaviour that they're witnessing. Rightly so, but that doesn't mean that behaviour such as this is not commonplace.

Censoring the media would not solve the underlying problem of ignorance. If politicians want to get involved, then as elected representatives and ambassadors for their nation it's their job to project a more balanced image. As policy makers and financiers of the state - education would be a good place to start.

I will not be watching Big Brother because I find the exploitation of those ignorant 'celebrities' uncomfortable to watch.

(Big Brother's Big Mouth is quite funny though...)

I dnt think that these girls are actually racist i dont think that they choose to treat Shilpa the way they do just because she is Asian, they are bullying her and ganging up on her and out of this, racist comments come forth, listen to Shilpas comment about England today those girls bring shame they really do. look at Jade over oxo cubes, her mouth is always open and she fails to listen, and Jack i mean all of them look they r in a country where they have access to free eduation yet they cant talk properly

With regard to how the BB racism row reflects on Britain as a nation, I think an important point is being missed.

This issue has received a high level of media coverage precisely because of the level of complaints about the treatment of Shilpa which have been made by the British public.

If anything this shows that racial abuse (real or perceived) is not acceptable in this country.

Surreal but true? I agree. That this issue can take precedence over other worldly matters reveals an inherent weakness in our ability to do anything of substance. Here however we all seem to be excited at arguing in vitriolic circles of the merits of bullying versus racism, and even to extrapolate it to the diminishing stature of Britain. Channel 4 are not to be blamed at all. They are simply a mirror reflecting our own weaknesses.

I think it is dangerous to classify everything from racial point of view simply because some of the housemates come from different race/colour or culture. If we do so we shall be all the time debating without reaching any conclusions. Having said so BB show is not in good taste. It is nothing but bullying of worst kind. I am amazed at furious debate it has caused. Let us all instead debate how to stay ahead of others in the world as a coutry- progress and prosperity.

While the motivation for the comments from the women in the house might be merely bitchiness, I cannot believe that Channel 4 and a whole host of posters here think that Shilpa Shetty hasn't suffered racist abuse.

Comments about going back to slums and how "they" eat with their fingers clearly have an implication about how much more better Brits do things than these foreigners.

Believe me, if a Brit were to suffer this kind of "superior" attitude from ignorant foreigners, we'd soon have the same posters up in arms. The hypocrisy here is astounding.

The height of ignorance has reached a new low.

Jade Goody reducing Britain's reputation? The mind boggles to think how trash television got to this.

* 16. Andrew Tempest wrote:
Ten thousand British people write in to complain about it.

How exactly does that damage Britain's reputation?"

The fact that there are so many imbicilic idiots in the country that watch this programming for the sub intelligent and brain dead should be a clue.

Nina #90, from what I gleaned, they didn't like her not because of her race but they just didn't like her. Evidently they found her personal habits and attitude unacceptable. Even if they used language which could be construed as a racial slur to be hurtful to her, that is not racism. Real racism starts with an attitude based on race alone. From what I could tell, that was not the truth of it here and from what I've heard of her, I would not have liked her either. I might have found different words to tell it to her though. Merely using racial insults is not the same as racism in my book.

I am one of those not a regular tv viewer of Bigbrother untill i learned of an indian actress whom i heard of her name before but can't rememeber watching one of her film except that of Aswari Rai.But having watched the Big brother for few days ,i have come to the conclusion that initial reation of cultural differences have given way to down right abuse of shilpa just because she is of indian origin failing to realise that there are 1000's of indian doctors and nurses,computer scientists and engineers settled in uk contributing to the economy of uk as well as a sign of new india with emerging economic power,and it can be seen from the way shilpa handle the situation with air of cultural superiority as well lingusitic ability even would have put oxbridge dons to back room.
I can tell her talent can take her to greater hights in politics in the future as a cutural minister for india.

Of course this show - however trivial it is, and however easily we can collectively turn it off - affects our international reputation.

It's the dead-eyed, ignorant vulgarity it displays that we should be concerned about.

If people in India feel that Britain is racially prejudiced against them does anyone think they will stop coming? It hasn't worked in the US with Mexicans.

Name calling and saying anythin against an individual is acceptable under the stress of being watched 24X7 by millions
but when it comes to sayin thngs against a person's culture or country, its unacceptable.
both culture, of britain as well as india are diffrent. one culture or country can never b greater than d other.
its time we rise above these petty things and embrace ppl as they are, n have patience to understand where they come from.

Lot of people in different forum are saying that it is OK to make fun of Scottish, Irish or Welsh accent and they don’t mind and that is not considered as Racist but when it comes to making fun of Indian accent that is considered as Racist and Asians make lot of hue and cry about this. Yes, I agree that people do make fun of Scottish, Irish & Welsh accent but I am sure that they don’t do it all the time because if you make fun for any accent for that matter minute after minute, scotts or anyone will feel bad about this and I am sure he/she will see that in a racist way. There is a limit for making fun of anyone's accent. You can’t just do it all the time and have a laugh about this.

We should be thanking Jo from S-Club for making a very vital cure for famine in the world and making people "Healthy", "Eat with Fork & Knife" Seems like she hasn’t been to any of the fast food restaurant, for good old burger or even famous English food Chips Cos most of people eat burger and chips with their own hands and they are not "THIN" or Un-Healthy.

What can I say about pretty face Miss Great Britain, who has to sleep with one of the judges to get the crown. Other night she has already expressed her true feelings when she said "Shipla should go back home".

Lets not forget Jade, who's knowledge and vocabulary is known to almost every BB viewer. Person who doesn't know where East Anglia is, (if you remember from BB when Jade was "normal" participant) forget about expecting to know any knowledge about India or any Asian culture. Jack has already used famous "P" word while talking to Jade about Shipa.

I am not saying Shilpa is perfect but at least she is making an effort to adjust with her fellow participants. She has also made few blunders. She was also laughing when Jade was talking about "Whale" but at least she was laughing there and there not behind anyone’s back.

I would love to say this is pure case of Bullying at the very extreme but unfortunately it has crossed its boundaries and now for the last couple of days its purely Racism nothing else.

I have been living in London for the last six years and have made plenty of friends from different culture, race etc and yes most of them are White, I do know everyone is not racist but in CBB these three so called Celebrities are behaving like Racist….Sigh.

I have not seen the show. I am appalled when I read people arguing that mistreating people because of colour/race is just bullying and not racism. How do these people define racism? This show and the reaction from GB is a reflection of the society itself. Tolerance alone just takes racism undeground and the real feelings come out when defences are down as is happening in Big Brother. If you really want to rid the society of racism you have to shoot for equality. Tolerance is just the first step.

Firstly it is not only racist but also class-ist. If the right-wing tabloids say it is racist then you can pretty much take it as gospel that it is. Perhaps if people voted with their feet and stopped watching BB then Channel 4 might change their tune.

Jade as a representative of British people? I dont think so. The fact is Jade is just a being bitchy. The root cause of this is not because Shilpa Shetty is indian, it is because Jade doesn't like her. plain and simple. It just happens she is using race against her. More than likely if she was as horrid to Danielle, she would say something rude about Liverpudlians. This is not to say that we should not condemn Jade for using the racist comments, because of course we should. The one problem is, WE are the ones who made Jade and others like her into 'celebrities' (i use the terms very loosely) so it is people like us who should stop her by not buying magazines and watching shows with her in them.

True the issue is blown out of proportion. Certainly 3 people do not reperesent GB.
As far a comment on caste system is concerned, I would sugest you to read the news articles in 91Èȱ¬.com of reservation given for lower caste. 50% of goverment jobs & university opening are reserved for people who used to be in lower caste . And caste system is abolished, yeah it still lingers a wee bit with old people in villages. Kids in cities do not know what caste they belong too.

Someone wrote: "Maybe India should get it's own house in order before it starts lecturing othe nations and their politicans on fair treatment of people!"
Maybe UK should get its own class system and its ignorant subculture (which, among other things; take pride in asbos, thrives on state benefits, and considers being a chav as cool and attractive) in order before commenting on other nations.

Jade isnt racist, Jade is stupid and does not understand what she is saying

If anything the show highlights how poor the education is for the folk born in the underclass doomed by their catchment area to go to such bad schools

It seems to me that what is going on in the BB house is as much about class as it is about race. Shilpa has everything that Jade so demonstrably lacks and knows she can never have: beauty, intelligence, grace, style, elegance, and - most crucially of all - a career which is actually based on talent. Is it any wonder that Jade is eaten up with envy and spite? I'm just waiting for that moment when she spews green vomit and her head rotates full circle.

600,000 dead (arguably ;))in Iraq, and we are discussing racism? Please do not allow youself to be distracted. Our problems are deeper.

i agree with phil meek in that there are more concerning promblems facing GB than a racial compent on a triva show lacking realtiy and truth. what is more disturbing is the increase of viewers watching the show after the incident has occured as if wanting for it to happen again. what is the "Great" british public turning into?

while growing up in India, I can still remember, every thing & everyone associated with England was thought to be well cultured/mannered. Being a doctor in the UK, I have met people from all walks of life and have reached a conclusion that has been reinforced by the acts of the three females on this nonsensical show - this society attained its epitome long back and is now declining/stagnating. But ofcourse this is the natural lifecycle of any civilization.

Its shocking that so many dont see the comments and attitudes by the three as racist. I beleive that lots of caucasian people walk around in bubbles and dont see or ignore any behaviour that could be construed as racist. Sadly low level racism is quite wide spread in the UK, I beleive its borne out of ignorance and real malice isnt intended. It is also interesting to see that most of the people interviewed from an ethinc background see it as racist. ( lets ask the Bathists if Sadam was a bad guy what would they say ?)

However in this situation I think there are lots of reasons why Shilpa was being bullied (class issues , beauty ?) , but resorting to using somones race or culture when in an argument is racist, this also goes for using homophobic comments in the heat of an argument.
to quote Bliar "Education Education Education!"

So much discussion! Why? because BB is one of those rare things... a programme which does not tell us what to think. It's a wildlife programme without the David Attenborough commentary, and therefore all the more thought provoking.

It's just a TV show with some ignorant people in it. Wake up and smell the flowers, there are far more important things to worry about than this horrible show..

Wikipedia states: "Caste systems are traditional, hereditary systems of social stratification, enforced by law or common practice, based on classifications such as occupation, race, ethnicity, etc."

Shilpa doesn't wear a caste marking, but her mother does. Is Shilpa ashamed of her background, or just worried it'll affect her chances of breaking out of Bollywood post-BB?

There's only one thing more shameful than racist bullying and that's complaining about a programme you admit you've never watched yet consider to be moronic.

50 complaints after broadcast, 40,000 after the news bulletins; 2 million ratings before the furore, 8 million after. If I was a sponsor I wouldn't be pulling out.

Well if the remarks aired in CBB were not racist, does that mean we can all start referring to our Asian colleagues at work as "the Indian", "poppadum", "f---awallah", etc?

I think we'd find out whether those remarks are considered racist, pretty pronto. Any of the "it's not racism" advocates willing to give it a try?

No, I didn't think so.

I was reading the comments made by some in this blog. The term "Asian" specially used in contexts like of Despatchers programme completely pisses me off. That's a bloody wide generalisation. Not all "Asians" do preach/practice/sponsor/support hatred (in a mosque or otherwise) or have a pack mentality. Hello! We have a huge peace-loving hard-working Indian & Chinese population in this country who aren't close to what is described by "Asian" (used in the horrible way).

Surely, THAT generalisation IS racism. That would be as bad as me (an Indian) saying "the Whites nuked the Asians (Hiroshima/Nagasaki) and killed the Jews (Holocaust)".

Coming to the Jade/Shilpa row: racism & bullying has been voted out. Period.