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So next time I get called a "whitey" or a "cracker" I'm entitled to get offended? Good good, it's about time someone played the race card for white people - we seem to get kicked around and no-one ever cares.

- Shig, Soton

the word paki is offensive especially if urnot from pakistan. n people from pakistan arent called pakis..theyre called pakistanis..using the word paki jus related to violence and is a filthy word to use..i as n indian understand its not a nie word..to everyone else..they just think its a normal word..when it obviously isnt..and when does somone use the word paki in a polite conversation..its usually related with hatered!..pakistanis dnt hav a prob wit bein from pakistan..its everyone else with the problem..besides he shud know its seen as racist..evryone does..him saying 'sorry' doesnt make it better...besides leila isnt even from pakistan, her background isnt pakistani..thats wht makes it worse..

- Jkg, london

Get a Life all those who complained about Anton, Do you complain when someone calls you a Brummie or a scouser or a geordie, or Anne Robinson when she insults Welsh peaple NO. Bruce Forsyth did right to stick up for him. No Body complained in the days of Warren Mitchell programs it was funny and peaple laughed at it. The word Paki will always be about, just like the above but that does not mean your Racist. Do we cry racist when they have ago at us no we have to take it on the chin.

- Steve, Halifax Yorkshire

For one I think it would be hugely over the top to sack him for his comments, but I do feel some of the comments on this board are racist as they do not see the difference between calling someone an "aussie" and a Paki" anyone who cannot see the difference is dillusional. The word paki is so offensive because of the context it has been used in so often, the word unfortunatly goes hand in hand with racisim and certainly is "loaded" with associations where as "aussies" or "brits" are not. If I met a fellow brit on holiday i might be tempted to exclaim " ahh nice to meet another brit" , do those people who believe Paki is not offensive really pretend to mean that of they met someone from pakistan they would feel it appropriate to call them a paki to their face?. Regardless of the actual meaning of the word and if people believe it is just a shortening of a countrys name, it has now well and truly become a racist term and such shouldnt be used. Its true that the world has become a lot more PC and in some cases in a negative way, but i don't think we should lose sight of what PC actually means and of the importance of trying to address some of our outdated views and language.

- Matt, Southport

All blown out of a realistic proportion by the media and sad people who love to stir up so called "racial discrimination".
It is an ENTERTAINMENT programme,........... to be enjoyed..... not for small minded people to sit and critisise every "non PC remark".... haven`t we all said something like it at some time in our lives??
MOVE ON BBC!

- Wilma, glasgow, u.k.

Whilst I can see that the word was innapropriate, there is know way to tell how it was said or if it was meant maliciously. I realise that regardless of intent the term probably shouldnt have been used at all. However I think that BBC sacking someone (or threatening to) over something that wasnt said live on air is a disgrace. It the worst possible form of censorship in a world that has already gone mad with political correctness. I myself cannot stand racism but I also believe that we have the right to our opinion and to express ourselves. He shouldn't have said it, but the next step to this is sacking someone for a comment made in their own home. Its madness! And blowing it out of proportion like this achieves nothing other than giving the slur more weight.

- Kelly M, Edinburgh Scotland

I don't get the fuss. how can Paki be offensive when it's simply an abbreviation of a term. like calling a British person a Brit. Paki is only offensive to the ignorant few that think theres actually genuinely something wrong with coming from pakistan, which despite what newpapers like the sun might tell you, is actually quite a natural thing.
Racism will never dissapear as long as people who comments never affected continue trying to garner attention by acting as if it their right to be offended. And just incase you'd forgotten, we have laws which protect free speech in this country and anyone suggesting we curb that might want to get off their lazy behind and do a little research as to why we have free speech laws, and what happens when government tries to repeal them.
Du Beke apologised, his apology was immediately accepted by the woman he may have offended. The matter concerns nobody else.
Every time this happens it merely gives more ammunition to those who would prefer free speech laws were curbed for the ease of their own shenanigans. like the government for example.
You start telling people what they can and cant say and thats a very quick slippery slope to "You can't critisize government".
Hows about attacking the racist bigoted imperial foreign policy of the British governments of the last 20 years, or denouncing our support for terrorist states such as Israel, Libya or Saudi Arabia. These are ACTUAL racist problems that threaten our way of life.

- Dru, Shropshire

At the end of the day. The comment should only impact those who were present in the conversation, the media speculation is turning this into an issue of racism. The term was not said in a racist manner, then yes it was a matter of ignorance, but as a throw away comment and not as a personal dig.

Everyone should keep their nose out of something which is not their business and leave the comment to be what it was, a joke between two people, behind closed doors. By singling out those involved in the joke, you are no better than them. Everyone makes mistakes, regardless of whether they are in the public eye or not.

- Hannah, Bury St Edmunds

Look. This has nothing to do with pc. These words are terms of hate and are often followed by offers to bash your head in or invitations to go back "home".

Until some people learn to use their intelligence to understand that jock, ausie, Brit, limey and the like do not compare to paki, nigger etc we will get ignorant comments such as these. I don't necessarily think they are racist but they are perpetuating racism by their insensitivity. Walk a mile in the skin of an Asian or black person before commenting.

- James, London

I am getting really fed-up with all this political correctness. As far as I am concerned any individual that finds an individual from Pakistan being called a packi offencive is just adding to all the racism in the world. In my 40 years I have been called Jock, Jimmy, Scott and not once have I ever found it offensive. All parties can have a laugh about it. My best friend is from Nigeria and is constantly taking the mick out of me for being pale. This is not racism this is just a bit of fun. I also have a friend that is chinese and will ask me if I want to come round for a bite to eat as they are having a chinky.... The comment above stating that being called a Paki is as offensive as being called a n*****. Don't think so as I have never heard of a place called n*****land, but there is a place called PAKIstan.
Lets all just move on and enjoy our life after all we are all HUMAN.

- Scottie, East Kilbride Scotland

It doesn,t matter what nationality you are, if you can't laugh at yourself then there is no hope. The inability to laugh at yourself leads to so many conflicts word wide. I am Welsh through and through, and we all know what is said about the Welsh (yes we do love sheep). I have friends who are Scottish, Irish and English, American, Part Kenyan etc. If the things we say to each other and laugh about were to be made public, we'd have another world war. For goodness sake - lighten up, surely there are more devastating things happening in the world to get so upset about. I also worked with a number of Asian colleagues, who would also laugh at themselves and banter with us, with no ill feelings. We all knew we spoke in fun and not in malice, it would have only taken one narrow minded person to have caused everyone to think we meant what we said in a personal manner. I must add, I abhor racism, when it is meant with ill intent, but surely we can all ease up and look at things more sensibly. If the person, who is actually involved is not upset about any comment that is made, then that is where it ends.

- Maggie, Cardiff.Wales

If it had been a black person nothing would have been said, I have got two black grandchildren whom I am very proud of, so no way way am I racist, I am sure there was no harm meant just a slip of the tongue.

- Gail Bonnington, waterlooville hants

This entire affair has been blown way out of proportion. In many ways, I agree with Bruce. It's true that this situation is not one to be taken lightly, but a slap on the wrist and a warning would have been enough to make sure this didn't happen again. Merely the fact that Du Beke's partner ran from the room crying told him well enough that what he said was wrong, and that he should be more careful about what he says, without everyone else shouting at him. Sometimes, you just have to accept that someone was wrong, and then move on. It's not likely to happen again.

- Nick, Tonbridge

I have never heard such a load of nonsense in my life. I think people who start these rumours are after the jobs themselves. I feel sorry for the girl in question but we all use that word at some point. Anton is a very funny and sensitive man and i'm sure he never meant it how it was taken. I believe the girl is fine about it now so why all the fuss as I sais is someone after his JOB???????

- Thomas J, Warwickshire England

Oh please. Let's be realistic about the Pakistani people. News reaches me this very morning that Pakis murdered at least 40 of their compatriots in Peshawar, the latest in a string of deadly suicide bombings.

If the good citizens of Pakistan wish to improve their image and society, they might look further than a silly remark like this.

- David Stanley, Irvine

This comment was not said with any malice, it was a tongue - in - cheek remark, but as usual the media made it in to a big major thing.

- Maz Wilson, southlanarkshire

I dont believe Anton was being offensive or vindictive in his use of the word, he says things off the cuff and sometimes this can be misinterpreted, but Laila Rouass accepted his apology which shows she doesnt believe he meant to offend, and i think Brucie is right to defend him, but maybe will cause more debate on the issue. I hate racism, but just think things have been blown out of proportion. Look at Frankie Boyle jokes, there usually alot more offensive but nobody moans!!

- Jake Overton, southend on sea

So if we are not allowed to call Pakistani's Paki's are we also not allowed to call Australians Aussies?

- Wendy, Poole, Dorset

Rogan, well said. Racism needs to be removed from our society, but much of what is perceived to be racism has no malicious intent. The more such frivilous comments are hyped into "racist taunts" the longer true racism will persist. Constantly defining people's ethnic origin in all areas of life breeds racism. People are people. Start thinking of those around you as people and racism will start to fade away. Comments made in jest do not constitute facism. Bruce's comment was trying to get people to lighten up and realise this. In no way was he trying to belittle the victims of true racism.

- Dannyp, Egham

Well done Britain. Death of a girl 1 comment.
Death of a child 29 comments.
Post office strike 17 comments.
Someone says PAKI 52 comments.
Well done Britain dont that say it all ?

- Allan, Brasil

Leila has a name - Paki is not a name.

If an asian presenter called a colleague a honkey or bluefoot, the whole of the UK would complain...perhaps Chav is the new word for a white person..?

Its not acceptable , nor is it funny and is franky shocking, I am not from Pakistan, but I am asian and I have been called a Paki in the past.

Racism is rife in every culture, it will never go away, no need to be racist in public and no need to use offensive terms for other cultures - period. Small brains, unhealthy upbringing and poor education are to blame.

- Stop Racism, London, England

Some thoughts, having read the comments on this page:

1. The BBC are sweeping racism under the carpet.
2. To properly understand racism you or your family have to have been the subject of racist abuse. To everyone else, racism is an abstraction.
3. Bruce Forsyth will never grasp the concept of racism, but thankfully he can get his head around the concept of unemployment.
4. "Brit" is not the equivalent of "Paki". No one in this country has ever been racially abused by being called a "Brit".
5. Anyone who dismisses "Paki" as a mere abbreviation of the word Pakistani is either insensitive, uninformed, or just racist.
6. Let's kick racism out of football, but also ballroom dancing.
7. Mild racism is still racism.
8. Du Beke is probably more thick than intolerant, but that's no excuse.
9. Ms Rouass has a accepted the apology, but that doesn't mean it's OK. It just means she has a vested interest in accepting the apology.
10. Private racism is still racism.

- Pablo, London

Bruce is just a geriatric no-hoper. He stopped being funny about 60 years ago. He wouldn't understand racist remarks. He's probably still living with a colonial mindset.

- Anil, glos

Too right Bruce, -

“We used to have a sense of humour about this. You go back 25, 30, 40 years and there has always been a bit of humour about the whole thing.

“At one time the Americans used to call us limeys' which doesn't sound very nice, but we used to laugh about it. Everybody has a nickname.”

You said it, called a spade a spade, now every drama queen can go & take a moment to get over themselves ..unless shameless BBC is doing this on purpose, using Bruce as a scapegoat in a cut throat battle to gain sensational ratings & stories no matter who gets the raw deal... hmm one wonders what the real issues are here?...

- Xen, London

The BBC made a rod for it's own back by coming down hard on Carol Thatcher and refusing to accept her apology - There seems to be a double standard at work in how they are dealing with this (or rather trying not to deal with it) and they have been caught out.

- Pete Morris, London

Yes, the word Paki can be offensive but only when used in an offensive manner. Watch the film, East is East to get an insight of how pakis from Manchester see themselves (OK not all of them).

I am a Scot, born and bred, lived in London for most of my life. . I have never been offended by any terms the English, comedians or TV sitcoms have used to portray the Scots. I am sure I speak for all the paddys and taffs out there too.

Perhaps the BBC should rerun" It Aint half hot mum" or the" Two Ronnies"
to remind themselves of Brit humour at the expense of a different culture. Also, there was "Alf Garnett", plenty of true English attitude there. Relatively accurate portrayal of a typical ignorant conservative voting individual. Our country was full of them back then. This program was a way to make that point, but through humour.
Ray. expat in USA.

- Ray Jarvis, marlborough, USA

This new series of SCD is jinxed. The BBC had a winning formula and in the face of overwhelming objections by the viewing public decided to go ahead with unpopular changes. The unease is palpable when watching the show and perhaps it is time for the BBC to call a halt; no amount of glitz can gloss over the fact that the magic has gone. It is also very worrying that we are paying people to spy on people and report on their personal, private conversations. George Orwell wasn't that far off the mark when he suggested that we would become a world of closely monitored nations.

- Joan, London UK

This whole thing is an insult to the TRUE victims of racism.

- Gwaddilove, London..England

I am not and Asian person,if that old wrinkled chap had an iota of brain cell,he would have known that the term is derigatory and normally used with bad intent.Perhaps it clearly demonstrates, that in most cases,when a racial abuse is thrown at a person, the perpetuator is clearly jealouse, or frustated at the lack of certain qualities which the victim posses.
This dark skin woman is BEAUTIFUL in all definition,elegant and proportionate than most ,caucasian women I have seen.
So the fact that De Buke used 'the' word,means he was inadequate.
If I was at Bruce's age, God knows I will be honourably retired and not prancing around on TV, like a demented,ungraceful grandfather.

- Daniel Gates, Rochester

As I'm typing this I'm watching "Strictly" - It takes Two, and Anton & Leila are seen practicing their foxtrot. They seem to be getting on very well, so its pretty obvious its not an issue with her. As Ed from Wexford said, if she was that upset why is she still dancing with him. I agree. I think this matter has been blown up completely out of proportion and the matter should be closed, and again, as previously mentioned if the comment was made in training and in private, who leaked it?! Shame on them.

- Terry Godfrey, Cardiff, Wales

isn't it time for old Bruce to sit back and enjoy the freedom of his BUS-PASS a'mean look at him he looks like a stuffed mannequin with that straw on his Barnett..

- Kc, London Boy

Its wrong to say and very rude. My asian friends are horrified and so am I (I'm white, english btw). If you said this in a corporate environment you would be dismissed 99 out of 100 times. If its a joke or not is unimportant as you have to question the judgement of someone who can say this especially if they are on a publically paid for national TV station!!

Bruce needs to retire he is so out of touch with the modern world!

Du Beke should be sacked immediately as he will not stand down. BBC are reluctant as he has a game show they would then need to scrap. Thats the real reason he is still around. BBC is paid for by us the taxpayers surely this means our opinion counts for something. If Carol Thatcher is sacked for less offensive off-air comments then surely its the same rule for other BBC employees??

- Pj, London, England

Well Cam from Essex, it might suprise you to know that the British Army who defended our freedom in WWII was not exclusively white and English . . .Furthermore, many Commonwealth citizens were invited to the UK in the 50's to help with the skills vacuum left. This included those who helped rebuild Britain after the war.
Says Bleeding Heart Liberal.

The war ended in 1945. The Windrush didn't arrive for another three years until 1948 and immigration didn't start in earnest until the mid 50s. Rationing didn't end until 1954; I wonder if there is a connection?
Thats quite a lot of reconstruction while rationed performed by the generation you malign for their attitude. Still the eye witnesses to those days will be dead and buried soon - meanwhile I hope you got a good mark for your Black History Month module.

- Cam, Essex

the point is the term was used as a perjorative and not in a pleasant "I like what you've done with your hair" kind of way, and the lady in question was obliged to accept the apology no matter how hurt she felt so as to look like a good sport. I'd have thought the decent thing was for this chap to tender his resignation as he obviously can't think, talk and dance at the same time.

- Squiz, Islington

Oh Bruce if someone said that to your wife or son - who I believe look exceptionally Asian I'm thinking you'd be singing from a different hymn sheet.

- Nardia, London

Language is language and people choose whether to use it as an offence or not as much as people choose to be offended or not.
I am offended at the very notion of government, and the public sheep doing it's work for them, telling me what I can say and what I cannot say.
Grow up!!

- Dep, London

I would not appreciate being called a paki, nor would a black man appreciate being called a n*****. All because these terms have a provocative racisit history. They have been created out of hatred for other races. If the terms weren't generated out of hatred, things would be different!

- J Nagi, London

If she was that upset why is she still dancing with him ?

- Ed, Wexford Ireland

Half of "racism" is perception of meaning by others, some of the rest is intent. The remainder is unintended, socially habitual and totally non-malicious (and that's from all parts in the racial divide, remember). That leaves plenty of room for heated debate, sure, with everyone having their own positive or negative examples to throw into the mix. It is true that people should try to be more aware of possible misinterpretation of intent by listeners, no question of that - but as it doesn't happen in every other aspect of day to day interactions, why would anyone expect this to be radically different? It is thus also true that listeners should not have their sensibilities set on a feather-light trip switch for automatic shock/horror at anything/everything THEY perceive as non-PC.

How about focussing on the people with clearly malicious intent instead of linking every single half incident to them.

- Rogan, Irving

Let's describe a hypothetical analogous situation:

Anton du Beke "jokes" to ex-contestant and current SCD judge Alesha Dixon, "My God, you look like a n*****". 15 other people are present, who are stunned into silence. At the time, Alesha is so upset and humiliated that she immediately gets changed and goes home.

Anyone attempting to excuse Du Beke's remarks to Laila Rouass on the grounds of "Paki is just short for Pakistani" or "people should get a sense of humour" should consider if they'd make the same statements in the case of the hypothetical scenario involving Alesha Dixon, given that "n*****" is derived from "negro" and it's an analogous term to "Paki" in terms of being grossly offensive, especially from the perspective of Asians.

If you believe it would be unacceptable and extremely racially offensive in the case of Alesha, then exactly the same logic applies to Laila.

- Anon, London

"Paki is short for Pakistani Brit is short for British,where's the problem????

- El Del, Valencia Spain"

The person to whom the remark was made was half Indian and not Pakistani.

Paki is not a term that engenders any affection, it is a term that has always been used in a derogatry and aggressive manner. Find a person who welcomes being called a Paki - I have many Asian friends and none of them would welcome being called a Paki - surely that is the acid test.

- Gary, West London

If Du Beke were Pakistani , and said to Rouass, " Gosh, you look like a white ", would that be racist too ?

- Chris, London

To call for the ruination of this mans career ,as some are doing here,is really quiet beyond the pale for such a trivial reason,Paki is a abbreviation of the word Pakistan,yes it was once used as a term of insult by mainly skin heads in the 70s.My son has several friends from Pakistan who call themselves Paki lads,my son has referred to them as his Paki mates ,in there presence,its simply not a issues in 2009.In fact from my observations it is a badge of pride amongst the Pakistani youth,in much the same way as black youth/people are proud to be black,is the term Afro cut racist! is black pride racist! And I do wonder if those who are trying to hound this man to destruction,are indeed practising a form of inverted racism! Some may have forgotten how to laugh,but please don't loose your humanity.

- Kev, London-UK

who are these PC minnows why are the great British Public a''owing them to wag the dog .If we are not carefull another great British institution will be cancelled by the BBC in order to save face with a tiny minority.

- Borboy, northampton england

Human beings can never seem to strike the right balance. The road to hell is paved with good intentions; so it is with the perfectly desirable need to stamp out racism. It has turned into a tyranny alas. Off the cuff remarks;
private conversations; words taken out of context, all grist to the zealot's mill. What a shame!

- Brian Taylor, Oxford UK

Anand Reddy, London, 'what are the terms to describe Brits', well I've been called FET, and Honkey, by othe races., but then there is probably a justifiable excuse for that.

- Alan, carlisle uk

Much as the accusations of racism against Anton du Beke are ridiculous and I despise the people who are making them, I'm quite enjoying seeing the BBC being hoist by their own petard. They are more responsible than most people for the wilful misunderstanding of our languange and its good to see them suffering the consequences..

- Ali Baba, Shepperton, UK

Nothing like some controversy to get ratings for an absolutely awful programme up? Who the hell cares about ball room dancing anyway. More people probably participate in line dancing than ball room dancing?

- Anand Reddy, London

I can't understand the offence caused here. It was meant in a light hearted manner, not as a word to wound and offend. Surely Paki is an abbreviation like Afghan (istan), Uzbek (istan), Turk (ish), Ozzie (Australia) or even Brit (British) for that matter!!! Anton DB's apology has been unreservedly accepted by his dance partner...we should all move on.

- Peter J, Hampshire

Let's face it, most of us have heard the word Paki used in a derogative manner and not used in the same way as someone calling you a Brit or a Sweed. Some people feel the word Paki has the same derogative meaning
as n*****. Some of you may not have been called a Paki so you can brush off the remark but if you are not blond, blue eyed and white but from Asia you might have taken a different approach. I don't take offense to being called a Brit but I would if I were called a Paki because of its associated derogative meaning.

- Frank, Copenhagen, Denmark

Some things are just wrong and this is one of them.

- Goggs, London

I love Brucey but his comments smack of racism and are unacceptable as far as I'm concerned - he just doesn't get it.
I've read people's comments and it is easy for you to say it is 'pc gone mad 'or that 'it is fine as it was said as a joke' etc but not so for the person on the recieving end - all a bit familiar with Prince Harry's comments as well. I know what it is like to be called a 'paki' - it is not nice, it makes you feel awful and it all comes down to the colour of your skin. Anton should know better and I have no hesitation in calling him a racist - these days racism is just more covered up and all you white middle class people out there have no idea what it feels like to be taunted because of the colour of your skin and where you come from. You have the luxury of thinking it is funny - we don't. What choice does Laila have but to laugh it off - she is clearly embarassed about it. Get a grip - these things matter for a reason an sends our the wrong message. Shame on you Anton. I think you should get the boot.

- Sehra, London

I love Brucey but his comments smack of racism and are unacceptable as far as I'm concerned - he just doesn't get it.
I've read people's comments and it is easy for you to say it is 'pc gone mad 'or that 'it is fine as it was said as a joke' etc but not so for the person on the recieving end - all a bit familiar with Prince Harry's comments as well. I know what it is like to be called a 'paki' - it is not nice, it makes you feel awful and it all comes down to the colour of your skin. Anton should know better and I have no hesitation in calling him a racist - these days racism is just more covered up and all you white middle class people out there have no idea what it feels like to be taunted because of the colour of your skin and where you come from. You have the luxury of thinking it is funny - we don't. What choice does Laila have but to laugh it off - she is clearly embarassed about it. Get a grip - these things matter for a reason an sends our the wrong message. Shame on you Anton. I think you should get the boot.

- Sehra, London

I'm sorry but if you've got scars on your body because you've been chased in your neighbourhood as a child by thugs who want to "paki bash" you and grown up around people who have used the word solely to degrade and offend as well as exclude and hurt, as THOUSANDS of us have, then it's not "PC gone mad" it's having the intelligence to have a sense of context. If you can't contain enough information in your brain to develop a sense of "context" then go rushing to the *squeal* "It's PC gone mad!!!!" brigade.

As for the actual comment, if it was said in private and had no malicious or racist intent, then I don't see the problem.

- A K, East London, Stratford.

PAKI isn't that rude these days, what is all the fuss about. It's only after all an abbreviation. Stop being so hyper sensitive about it all. Who would get upset if someone was called Scot ?, certainly not Scottish people. I know it seems like a swear word, but it isn't .

- Alan, LONDON

Captain Black Of The Mysterons, London, England, (and Richard Llittlejohn), thanks for the pointless history lesson, but surely you can understand that certain terms have been highjacked and made unacceptable by years of mis-use?
If you don't get it, then take a look at the Swastika- for centuries a revered symbol in eastern faiths, but now reviled (and outlawed by Germany) as a symbol of Nazi mass murderers.
If you think it is acceptable, pop along to Southall and use it liberally to see how those affested feel about it, or better still, pop into Brixton and use the "abbreviation" for "Negro"- I think you'll soon understand why it hurts to use such terms.

- Fresh, London

It doesnt take much for individuals to call for someone to be sacked.Judge jury and executioner all in one. What a pathetic bunch of morons who react with fury to the most innocent slight.I would say to those clamouring for his head: Do we want to live in a society where every word spoken has to be guarded for fear of offence.People are too touchy i,ve been called worse -so what!

- Tony, Essex

Not much fun for Laisa who is half Indian to be called that. Trouble with Brucie and Anton is that they still think its a bit of a laugh. Not when you're on the receiving end, it isn't.

- Dhan Raj, Basildon

Nobody has asked why the BBC thinks it's normal for TV 'stars' to change their colour of skin in the first place and to offer them the 'service' on a weekly basis. It's a bit rich to criticise somebody for commenting on skin colour while starting the issue themselves! And if any BBC employee wants to mock Michael Jackson for changing skin colour, then they should think again. Either skin colour is not an issue (as I think) or it is (as the BBC thinks). Which is it to be?

- Gc, London

The calls in to question once more the quality of the management at the BBC, it continually shows itself up as being totally dumb and out of touch. It should also be borne in mind the only way a private conversation such as this could have found its way in to the public domain, is through the BBC and its staff. Generally those who shout racists are the ones that are themselves are deeply racist. So in this instance and in others in a similar vein leaking from this corporate madhouse it can only lead one to believe the BBC has race at heart and will promote it in its own particular way to reflect exclusively its little world in West London.

For something to be deemed racist, in the first instance it should refer to a race. Paki never has and there is no conceivable reason why it could ever relate to a race of people.

What the BBC hasn’t recognised is that to the rest of the world the only race is the human race.

- Ian, Reading, England

If this was said at rehearsal, it didn't need to be aired. The offence to others could have been avoided and it would simply have been a matter between the two people, which they themselves appear to have resolved between them. Another daft Beeb editorial decision?

- Peace Maker, Battersea

Yes, they remember the days when the indigenous population of this country commanded respect.
They were the generation that defended this country and then rebuilt it to make it a land fit for immigrants and political correctness.
But not to worry Paul , old age and disease will remove your elders and betters soon.

- Cam, Essex

Well Cam from Essex, it might suprise you to know that the British Army who defended our freedom in WWII was not exclusively white and English. Have you already forgotten the Gurkha campaign? There were also large numbers from the Indian subcontinent who fought in the war.

Furthermore, many Commonwealth citizens were invited to the UK in the 50's to help with the skills vacuum left. This included those who helped rebuild Britain after the war. Bruce's comments are unsurprising as he comes from a generation that thinks casual racist comments are acceptable. However, they are not and he shouldn't make light of the offence caused. As for Anton du Beke, I think he should consider his postion. Does he think that making such comments are acceptable? He did apologise, however, should he really be allowed to continue on a show that is broadcast on the BBC which broadcasts to all faiths, colours and creeds?

- Bleeding Heart Liberal, London

Brucie, why don't we bring back, love thy neighbour, Alf Garnett (Till death do us part), The Black and white minstrels or Bernard Manning . Yes these programs of this era was just a bit of humour and everyone laughed at it, indeed!

- Clive, Streatham

I think Ashley Smithson of St Albans has got it spot on, I couldn't agree more with her comments and as a red head, it's a good job I haven't taken offence at the numerous nasty comments that have come my way during my 40+ years. Get some perspective people and stop trying to make a mountain out of a mole hill. This comment wasn't said in the public domain, it was said to an individual who has fully accepted the apology offered to her.

- Geraldine, London

Causing offence - the worst crime you can commit in this country. If Sharon Shoesmith had been sacked for using a racist word, rather than being responsible for a child's death, there would be no compensation claim and no Guardian backing her.

- Kevin T, Beckenham, Kent

Using the "sense of humour" get out clause, what is something I can call the black community, the chinese, the native Brits etc etc? Surely any idiot can see the flaw in this reasoning. The person using the term might find it funny whereas the person being racially abused obviouly will not find it funny? But seriously, if I am using my sense of humour, what are the terms to describe Brits?

- Anand Reddy, London

Who was the informer who reported his crime to the thought police?

- Pierre Stasi, London, UK

Paki is short for Pakistani Brit is short for British,where's the problem????

- El Del, Valencia Spain

1. If Paki is an acceptable term, why the fuss? Let's teach this term in our schools.

2. If Paki is unacceptable, why? Perhaps it is because this word has been used in a degraded and insulting manner in the past.

There is no middle ground here such as "mild racism". Either something is racist or it is not. For example are monkey calls during football matches "mild racism"?

- Anand Reddy, London

My 7th Edition of the Concise Oxford Dictionary says that the word "Paki" is an abbreviation of the word Pakistani. It was printed in 1982, and times have moved on. I do not know where the expression "Paki" came from but I strongly suspect it was used not as a racist term but, as the COD says, as a shortenting of a word most people would find too long to use in daily conversation.

Does this onbjection to the use of the word mean that henceforth no one can call a Russian a Ruski or a Frenchman a Frog or a German a Kraut or Hun? Hardly racist, more a trait of our national character. In the same way other nations refer to us as Limeys or Tommies or Brits - a derogatory term used by Nationalists and Republicans in Ireland.

Recently, a young boy was reprimanded,by his school, I think, after watching a film about WWII, for saying to his Polish friend let's go shoot some Germans, and at the same time, like many children would do,pointing his fingers towards the friend in the shape of a pistol.

As Richard Littlejohn would say, we're all going to hell in a handcart. The politically correct of this country are ruining it inch by inch every day. Soon, we'll be like those zombie-like people you can see in the film Metropolis frigthened of our won shadows, frightened to say anything to anyone in case of offence.

Truly tragic.

- Captain Black Of The Mysterons, London, England

Everyone (sorry not everyone just a pathetic minority) has gone pc mad. This idiotic minority will stop anyone wanting to go on tv or the radio. He apologised. It was accepted. That's it. Now just shut up.

- Tony, london

People need to get a life. The remark was said off air, in private. He apologised and she accepted, and that should be the end of the matter. It has got nothing to do with anyone else. The fact that people are still complaining about this is more pathetic than the actual remark !

- Paul, LONDON

in fact Paki means being cleaned and pak means pure . many ppl donot even know the meanings, the problem is the way this word has been used in the daily routine is an abuse.
If we run a a compaign about this , there might be some understanding so when you guys call us Pakis in fact you are praising us . but the way you take meanings of this word is not acceptable as long as there is a clear awareness of this.

- Hasan, Pakistan

Both he and Brucie should be sacked, purely because I don't like the programme!

- Martin, Purley

What ever happened to the old saying,Sticks and stones will break my bones,but names will never hurt me.
People are far too sensitive today.

- David Nigel Braham, Milan Italy

Of course his perspective is out of step with current thinking PB because current thinking is ridiculous! Let us face it if we say anything to do with colour it is automatically classed as racist, yet when anything is critised about Britain or the UK to do with our country, the people, culture our religions etc, we have to just accept it, if we try to defend ourselves, which we also have a right to do, we are called racist! Well I am fed up with a one sided take on everything. We have freedom of speech at least we used to. If any incident is done with ill intent toward any human being then yes I agree it should be dealt with however, if something is said innocently then surely we do have to get a grip and find a sense of humour. It won't be long until everything that comes out of our mouths will be offensive to someone somewhere. It is 21st C who cares whether you're white, black, brown, yellow or even multicoloured it is the individuals ethics, values and how kind you are that should count. Saying someone is a limey, a paki or a golly wog should in this day and age mean nothing. If you take offence then I believe there is a deeper rooted problem that needs to be dealt with. As a side, in my childhood I loved and collected the golly wogs on jam jars and was very upset they had to be removed because it was deemed offensive, where were my rights as a collector. Well red heads have always been ridiculled, yet I don't hear them screaming discrimination every 5 minutes.

- Ashley Smithson, st albans

I guess there is an irony in that Paki as in Pakistan means land of the pure. So calling someone a Paki is actually a compliment however it might be intended.

- Gazza, London,England

Anton du Beke could have said: "Goodness me. You look just like a member of the Pakistani community." Would that have been alright? It's always difficult to tell what people are going to going upset about.

- Tom Plumber, Walthamstow, UK

Whist I admire Bruce's longevity in showbusiness, his comment is indicative of his age. It's quite understandable maybe, but its also very out of touch with the modern world. We have moved on a great deal since the 1950s, and most people ARE offended by the use of the word Du Beke used. End of story.

And Talksport seem to have a specific agenda to put the boot into the BBC as often as possible, so no surprise there.

- Richard, London UK

The comment should be taken togteher with tone, facial expression and atmosphere. None of us were there, Ms Rouass should be the judge of it. She had clearly taken it as a joke, no offence taken. Can BBC and tabloid media move on please ? I hope this will not affect their dancing, afterall that's what the show is about.

- Anita, London

The reason why these has-beens make these comments is to try and keep their profile raised. Then the media gives them the attention they crave. Totally predictable.

- David, N10

A lot people I know in there eighties seem to think mild racism is perfectly fine... of course they were all born in the lesser half of the last the century before the wide spread immigration of the 50’s . . . very much out of step with current thinking. Best let him make his comments and then ignore them like we probably should. Says Paul above.

Yes, they remember the days when the indigenous population of this country commanded respect.
They were the generation that defended this country and then rebuilt it to make it a land fit for immigrants and political correctness.
But not to worry Paul , old age and disease will remove your elders and betters soon.

- Cam, Essex

This kind of petty speech policing is creating fear amongst people; the lightest remark, the silliest joke and you will be denounced, your job threatened and your life possibly ruined. It is divisive also. I avoid talking to any non-white person in case anything I say is taken the wrong way or interpreted as "racist" - that stick to beat us all with. Mealy mouthed puritans love the whole "racist" witch hunt - they are able to feel superior to those people who aren't as "enlightened"as they are.

- Jentry, London UK

Yes, the BBC is rife with 'institutional racism' - it broadcast the MOBO awards last friday night. So much for its equality and inclusion ideals.

- Mc, London

how ridiculous has england got,all this politically correct business has ruined the country, but its the populations fault for not laughing the whole thing off or at least ignoring it

- Linda, italy

I agree with Brucie-but he also needs to get a sense of humour, his jokes, quips and routines with Tess Daley are bit old fashioned and are not very funny. I thought Rouass was Latin American and so what.

- Strongbow Sullivan, Paris,France.

SACK HIM.

institutional racism is not acceptable.

I like Bruce, but his deluded comments are not welcome.

- William Jenkins, london

I guess Anton thought he was being friendly and amusing. How come it leaked out?

- Stephen C, London

A lot people I know in there eighties seem to think mild racism is perfectly fine... of course they were all born in the lesser half of the last the century before the wide spread immigration of the 50’s. Bruce’s generation were one of the first to see immigration and the racism that followed first hand, so he has a valid perspective on this situation. Unfortunately his perspective although understandable is very much out of step with current thinking. Best let him make his comments and then ignore them like we probably should.

- Paul B, London

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