"I don't like what Musk is doing — it's reprehensible. But I also think he's an astounding person in terms of what he has contributed to engineering," an anonymous fellow told The Times. "The society would be hypocritical if it singled out and censured one person for things they have said and done."
Musk would be the first Royal Society fellow to be removed in over 150 years if expelled.
A final decision is expected following next month's meeting.