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Charlene White Defends Not Wearing a Poppy On-Air, Citing Impartiality Rules and Royal British Legion Backing

She points to broadcasting impartiality rules as the basis for her on‑air choice.

Overview

  • White appeared on ITV’s Loose Women without a poppy while her co-hosts wore one, prompting complaints and calls for her removal on social media.
  • In a November 3 Instagram post, she said she donates to and supports the Royal British Legion, wears a poppy off-screen, and follows broadcasters’ rules on visible charity endorsements.
  • She shared a letter from the Royal British Legion expressing full support for her personal decision and condemning those who bullied her over it.
  • The presenter described receiving renewed “hate, vitriol and racism” online and noted she is grieving her father, Denniston, an RAF veteran who recently died by suicide.
  • Coverage notes this dispute is recurring for White, who has previously faced coordinated abuse and petitions over the same choice, including campaigns linked to the EDL.