The latest episode of Have I Got News For You was pulled by the BBC shortly before it was due to air on Friday night because the show had booked Change UK leader Heidi Allen.

The show apologised to viewers on Twitter and said that the programme would not air at 9pm, before Beeb bosses explained it would have breached guidelines related to party leaders’ appearances during an election period.

A BBC statement explained: “The BBC has specific editorial guidelines that apply during election periods.

“Because of this it would be inappropriate to feature political party leaders on entertainment programmes during this short election period, which does not allow for equal representation to be achieved.

“So we will not broadcast the scheduled episode of HIGNFY featuring Heidi Allen, leader of Change UK. We will look to broadcast this episode at a later date.”

Fans of the show expressed their frustration on Twitter, with many pointing out that the Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage had appeared on Question Time on Thursday evening.

Author Emma Kennedy wrote: “Heidi Allen isn’t standing as an MEP. And BBCQT had Farage on last night. Who is standing as an MEP. SO EXPLAIN THAT.”

The BBC made clear the decision related to entertainment programmes. As Richard Osman, presenter of BBC quiz show Pointless pointed out, “comedy shows find impartiality and equal screen time far trickier than news programmes in the lead-up to all elections”.

After tweeting a photo of her name on a dressing room door, Ms Allen shared her confusion, revealing she had not been told about the decision.

“Maybe I’m just not as funny as Nigel Farage eh … !? He’s so funny, he seems to be on the BBC all the time! An explanation would be appreciated, not least to acknowledge the hard work of the entire crew who worked diligently to put the show together,” added the Change UK leader.

She later called the decision “very odd" and "very disappointing”.

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The government confirmed earlier this week that the election of MEPs to the European parliament will go ahead on May 23.