Popular TV presenter Dan Walker has had all allegations of racism, sexism, misogyny and bullying against him withdrawn.
Broadcaster Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije had brought claims including unfair dismissal, discrimination, harassment and breach of contract, and had alleged a “toxic culture of racism, sexism, misogyny and bullying” in the newsroom. Walker, who is vocal about his Christian faith, was named as a respondent alongside Channel 5, ITN and its chief executive.
Her lawyers have now confirmed the claims have been withdrawn after reaching a “mutual agreement” with ITN and Channel 5. The agreement was reached ahead of an employment tribunal due to begin this week, with a judge formally dismissing the case.
A statement from her lawyers said: “Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije can confirm that a mutual agreement has been reached with ITN and Channel 5 in respect of the matters subject to tribunal proceedings. Claudia-Liza fully withdraws her allegations relating to Dan Walker and does not intend to repeat or pursue them.”
In a statement, Dan Walker thanked his family and legal team and said he hoped his former colleague “finds peace”.
He wrote: "Channel 5 and ITN have reached an agreement with the claimant. I firmly feel that I should never have been pulled into this; however, I was fully prepared to go to tribunal and defend the allegations which were levelled at me.
"Through all of this, I have always been concerned for the claimant’s wellbeing, and that has not changed. I hope she finds peace."
The presenter added: "I want to thank my family and friends for all their love and support through this. I will be forever grateful to those who were kind enough to go on the record with their accounts of working alongside me.
“My thanks also to my legal team and the wonderful colleagues at 5 News and Classic FM who have supported me every step of the way."