Laura Whitmore has hit out at her critics, defending her role of questioning on Love Island and explaining the process behind it.
The Irish presenter, whose husband is Scots born Love Island voiceover artist Iain Stirling, was panned online for her 'invasive' questioning of Lillie's relationship with footballer Jack Grealish who had liked some of her posts.
Laura, who has hit out at a journalist before for asking her agent a question about her baby, posed what many thought were disrespectful questions to Lillie Haynes.
She told her on the reunion show: "I want to know where you're at because I've spotted some pictures, yes I've seen them. Jack Grealish - what's going on? We saw pictures - what's going on?"
Someone reminded Laura on her Instagram how she named and shamed journalists for asking questions saying: "If you're going to ask people invasive questions based off tabloid stories because it's your job...remember that when you name and shame other journalists who ask you the same questions because they're too doing their jobs."
Laura defended her actions saying: "I insist everyone sees the questions before they go on air and are ok with it. I believe in choice so nothing is ever asked without permission...that is the difference."
"Consent is an important word that can be become blurred. Everyone has a choice and everyone has a right to make their own decisions."
She added: "Shall I clarify few other things."
Referencing some fans disappointment that Kaz and Tyler were not invited onto the couch to be interviewed like the rest of the finalists, Laura explained: "Hundreds of people work on Love Island. My job is not to organise seating arrangements. I barely know what seat I'm sitting in before the show as set changes so much."
"We invited Kaz to sit with Toby for his exes segment but she didn't want to and it's her choice to make.
"Everything is run through with the islanders beforehand. It's all about choice!
"I only ask questions that are pre-approved by the compliance division.
"A lot of meetings happen before I can see the script and then I can add my voice."
Laura also admitted to drinking ahead of her presenting slot, whilst the contestant had to remain sober.
She said: "Unlike previous years the islanders weren't allowed alcohol.
"Please remember they are just regular people who were nervous on live telly. I'm sure some would have loved a drink for the nerves.
"I however had a large glass of wine before the show.. Having spent the last two years of celeb juice not drinking I owed it to myself!"
And she ended: "If I see anyone giving s**t to our islanders I will call you out."
