Richard Madeley has come under fire for his interview with a guest on Good Morning Britain.
Activist Miranda Whelehan was on the show to discuss whether oil protests are justified following disruption across the UK at the weekend. Just Stop Oil blocked access to oil terminals for ten days, as they demanded the Government stop new oil and gas projects.
Speaking about the protests, Miranda, 20, said: "I mean I don't think any of us want to be disrupting people's lives but I think given the science and the things that academics are saying about what oil is causing around the world and in this country to, this is the level of action that needs to be taken when our government is failing on their energy policies and climate pledges."
Richard said: "But you'd accept wouldn't you that it is a very complicated discussion to be had, it's a very complicated thing and this 'Just Stop Oil' slogan is very playground, it's very Vicky Pollard, it's quite childish.
"Just Stop Oil, I mean come on, there's more to say than that."
Miranda said: "I would say that the answers are actually very simple. We need to stop new oil licensing and that's what we are asking." Richard added: "We were expecting to get some messages of support from our viewers for you, we haven't had one, we've had nothing but furious complaints from people. Nothing positive at all."
Miranda, rather shocked, looked around at the presenters and said: "I wonder if any of you have read the latest IPCC reports that have come out this year? What they have said is that we are on the road to climate catastrophe...
"This will happen to my generation, to your children's generation and potentially to your grandchildren and I think we have a moral responsibility to act now."
The interview caused a huge amount of discussion on Twitter, with many viewers clashing over their opinion. Keith said: "Funny that. "Just Stop Oil" is childish Richard, yet "Take back control" and other grown-up government slogans are not."
User @opinionov said: "Funny how Richard says there is no support for this, but there is! Read your comments!"
Kon said: "You should at least allow her to say her opinion and then discuss it. He only proved her point, that people are not listening."
Julie added: "Go on girl… !! Richard let her speak!"
However, others disagreed, with Ben tweeting: "Long may [Richard] continue to do his thing!!!!"
User @thelinesman78 said: "Blocking the public getting to work, hospital appointments, school etc is wrong.."
Receive newsletters with the biggest and breaking TV and showbiz news by signing up here
