Masterchef host says he found out about sacking from reading media reports

• John Torode stated he learned of his "sacking" from media reports and maintains he has no recollection of the alleged incident.
• The celebrity chef, 59, said he had not heard from the BBC or the production company Banijay UK.
• BBC Director-General Tim Davie condemned the "serious racist term" and affirmed the BBC's commitment to upholding its values.
• The allegation was substantiated by an independent investigation conducted by law firm Lewis Silkin, commissioned by production company Banijay UK.
• Both the BBC and Banijay UK have stated they will not tolerate racist language and are firm on the decision not to renew Torode's contract.

IN FULL

John Torode says he was not informed of MasterChef sacking