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MasterChef's Gregg Wallace has been alleged to have made sexual comments by BBC's Kirsty Wark and 12 others as he leaves the show after 19 years.
The BBC received complaints regarding the conduct of the MasterChef star, and released the following statement to PA: "We take any issues that are raised with us seriously and we have robust processes in place to deal with them.
"We are always clear that any behaviour which falls below the standards expected by the BBC will not be tolerated.
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"Where an individual is contracted directly by an external production company we share any complaints or concerns with that company and we will always support them when addressing them."
After breaking the news that Wallace would be leaving the show, the BBC added a note to their article saying: "It comes after BBC News sent a letter to Wallace’s representatives on Tuesday setting out allegations of inappropriate sexual comments by 13 people who worked with him across a range of shows over a 17-year period.
"Broadcaster Kirsty Wark, who was a Celebrity MasterChef contestant in 2011 said he told 'sexualised' jokes during filming."
Kirsty Wark appeared alongside Wallace on the celebrity iteration of the show, which he also co-presented.
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The producer of MasterChef released a statement announcing co-presenter Wallace would be stepping back from the show.
The statement read: "This week the BBC received complaints from individuals in relation to historical allegations of misconduct while working with presenter Gregg Wallace on one of our shows.
"Whilst these complainants have not raised the allegations directly with our show producers or parent company Banijay UK, we feel that it is appropriate to conduct an immediate, external review to fully and impartially investigate.
"While this review is underway, Gregg Wallace will be stepping away from his role on MasterChef and is committed to fully cooperating throughout the process.
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“Banijay UK’s duty of care to staff is always a priority and our expectations regarding behaviour are made clear to both cast and crew on all productions, with multiple ways of raising concerns, including anonymously, clearly promoted on set.
“Whilst these are historical allegations, incidences brought to our attention where these expectations are not met, are thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately.”
The statement added: “If anyone would like to talk to us or raise any issues or concerns, then they can contact [email protected] in confidence."
Topics: BBC, TV, TV and Film
Michael Slavin