Sir Alan Sugar will be back for next years series of The Apprentice and his new role of Government adviser will “not compromise the BBC’s impartiality”, the BBC said.

Sir Alan said: “I am passionate about business and enterprise and that has always been my motivation for wanting to take on this role.

“I am glad that following detailed discussions, the BBC is satisfied that I will not be doing anything to affect its commitment to impartiality.”

In a statement the BBC said: “Following detailed discussions with Sir Alan Sugar, the BBC is satisfied that his new role as an Enterprise Champion to the Government will not compromise the BBC’s impartiality or his ability to present The Apprentice.

“Sir Alan is not going to be making policy for the Government nor does he have a duty to endorse Government policy.

“Moreover, Sir Alan has agreed that he will suspend all public facing activity relating to this unpaid post in the lead up to and during any shows that he is presenting on the BBC.”