I've already made the point once in this thread but what is the difference between insulting the Chinese and Jewish communities which everyone seems up in arms about and insulting the gay community which seems a popular pastime on this forum

That's a big statement, there will some people offended, there will be some who wuill know what he meant and just thonk of him as a silly old fart and in all likely hood some who won't give it a moments thought.

People make mistakes and whilst that does not excuse what he said, to throw away a lifes work because of poorly phrased interview seems more than a little harsh. As I've said before maybe judge him on his actions rather than his words.

I do wonder why Croydon is such a dump when there are so many perfect people who live in the area.

I never thought I'd see the day I would actually be sticking up for Whelan

I think the whole insult thing tends to jar less if your come from the group that did the 'persecuting and oppressing'. Its more akin to referring to the working class of Rochester as flag waving white van driving mild racists.

The historical context is essential. Which is why it doesn't really affect you when your called a honkie, but call one black bloke in the pub a cotton picking **** and it can turn into something serious

"One Nation Under God, has turned into One Nation Under the Influence of One Drug"
[Link]

I've heard that argument many times but how far in the past does this stuff have to be before we let it go ?
Should I still resent Germans, Romans and the French.
Harbouring historical resentment only hurts ones self ultimately.
Anyway didn't we liberate the Jews from Hitler and give them a homeland. And don't we keep many Chinese families in 4x4's by buying sweet and sour chicken balls most weekends. I rest my case.

I've heard that argument many times but how far in the past does this stuff have to be before we let it go ?
Should I still resent Germans, Romans and the French.
Harbouring historical resentment only hurts ones self ultimately.
Anyway didn't we liberate the Jews from Hitler and give them a homeland. And don't we keep many Chinese families in 4x4's by buying sweet and sour chicken balls most weekends. I rest my case.

There really is no point bothering to engage with level of argument. Dim beyond belief.

So if they weren't it would be ok to say those things? As I have said I do not think what he said was acceptable, whilst you are right he has let himself and his club down, I do think that context, the man himself and numerous other factors should be taken in to consideration before he is hung out to dry.