“The last thing in the world that I would want is that this issue in any way creates a distraction from Refuge’s critical work on their behalf, and therefore I think the right thing to do is to step back from my role with Refuge.”
In conclusion, she added: “This has been a hard decision for me as I feel so strongly about promoting their work and advancing awareness of this issue.”
Meanwhile, Fiona assured fans: “I will continue to be an active supporter, albeit from the sidelines for now.”
Refuge issued its own statement, confirming that it had accepted Fiona’s decision.
The charity wrote: “Refuge’s position was, and remains, clear – domestic abuse is never a ‘one-off’, it is a pattern of behaviour that can manifest in a number of ways, including but not limited to physical abuse. Domestic abuse is never acceptable.”
The BBC also defended Fiona’s comments, which were made on Question Time last week, insisting: “Domestic abuse is abhorrent, and we would never wish to suggest otherwise.
“When serious allegations are made on air against people or organisations, it is the job of BBC presenters to ensure that the context of those allegations – and any right of reply from the person or organisation – is given to the audience, and this is what Fiona Bruce was doing. She was not expressing any personal opinion about the situation.”