Benjamin Butterworth Explains Why He Left GB News Panel During Heated Migrant Row

Benjamin Butterworth’s abrupt disappearance from a GB News panel sparked speculation after a heated exchange about proposed immigration rules. But the broadcaster later said he had not stormed off: he was feeling unwell and became too dizzy to continue. Butterworth appeared on Patrick Christys’ programme on November 2 to discuss changes to the qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain. Daily Express columnist Carole Malone challenged his argument that the proposals represented some of the strictest rules yet. The two repeatedly disputed how the changes would affect migrants, with Malone calling his claims inaccurate as Butterworth defended his figures. Butterworth said the qualifying period would rise to 10 years for many applicants, while people earning above certain thresholds could qualify sooner. Malone countered that the rules would affect different groups in different ways and argued that higher earners should be fast-tracked. The discussion also turned to eligibility for bringing dependants to the UK, with Butterworth saying those rights had been ended for newer arrivals. When the programme moved on to another subject, Butterworth was no longer on the panel. Christys told viewers that Stella Tsantekidou had joined because Butterworth “had to go,” without initially giving further details. After the broadcast, Butterworth posted an apology to viewers on X and clarified what had happened. He said he had been “out of sorts for a few days” and that by 11pm he was so dizzy he could not focus on the newspapers. He added that viewers need not fear he had stormed out. The post prompted well-wishes from viewers, including messages hoping he would feel better soon. One commenter said they had noticed he did not seem like his usual self, while others urged him to look after himself. The on-air argument may have drawn attention, but Butterworth’s own explanation was that illness, rather than the clash with Malone, brought his appearance to an early end.