[Amy]

GERMAINE GREER EXITS BIG BROTHER

Germaine Greer decided to leave the Big Brother house today. Prior to her departure she visited the Diary Room on two occasions this morning to explain her decision to Big Brother. Germaine said;

"I don't consider myself a housemate anymore, I'm leaving. I don't need the money badly enough, the rainforest will be fine - I'll save it in other ways.

I was a little naïve. I didn't realise agendas. Caprice is here to raise awareness of her lingerie. Brigitte is a professional reality TV person. Kenzie wants to raise the profile of his band. John probably needs the money. I had no idea who would be in here and it's wrong for me to present myself in the same context as they are. I'm 65 and you can't teach an old dog new tricks.

I've made a mistake, it's called cutting your losses."

She received her suitcase at midday and began packing immediately.

Entering the bedroom she announced to the other housemates, "Sorry everyone, but I've got a suitcase to pack. I'm going."

Jackie's pleas for her to stay fell on deaf ears and while the other stunned housemates questioned her decision she was resolute, "I'm leaving over specific issues, but best for everyone if I don't discuss them. I have a problem with decisions, I make them fast and when I make them, I stick to them."

Bez was the first to offer Germaine an affectionate hug, soon followed by Kenzie who again asked for her reasons. "It's quitting time - that's all you need to know." She replied.

Germaine left via the Diary Room at 12.45pm.