BBC responds to The Apprentice's Shazia Hussain's racial abuse allegations
The BBC has responded after reports that The Apprentice star Shazia Hussain was racially abused by another candidate.
Hussain is competing in the current series of the BBC One show, though a new report claims that an investigation was launched after Hussain made a complaint to show producers about racial abuse received.
According to the MailOnline, Hussain was left distressed by the alleged incident, which was apparently caught on camera but the BBC haven't broadcasted.
Related: The Apprentice candidate fired after Brighton challenge flop
In response to the claims, the BBC said in a statement: "The Apprentice has a zero tolerance on racist bullying. The duty of care and welfare of all candidates is of utmost importance and when action is required, we take it.
"All candidates sign up to a strict code of conduct and if there was evidence of racist bullying candidates would be immediately removed from the process. We take all complaints very seriously."
Meanwhile, show star Khadeejah Khan spoke last month about the importance of representation on The Apprentice, as she is the first receptionist to wear a hijab on the series.
Related: The Apprentice's fired candidate reveals pregnancy news following exit
"This year, I had the most amazing opportunity to be a part of @apprenticeuk as Lord Sugar's receptionist," she wrote on Instagram, before going on to note that being on the show "sends a powerful message" to young girls and also encourages them to embrace their identity.
"Being the first ever hijabi receptionist on such a mainstream show sends a powerful message to anyone out there that anything is possible. I hope that this gives young girls looking to go into any industry the courage to believe in themselves and proudly embrace their identity – it makes you who you are."
The Apprentice airs on BBC One, with spin-off series You're Fired airing immediately afterwards on BBC Two.
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