The lads on MOTD don't seem to understand how VAR works.
The VAR officials aren't asking was it a clear and obvious pen, they're asking was it clear and obvious to the referee. In other words, they're allowing the ref some leeway in being able to get it wrong. Just like before VAR.
It's like that to try and appease the VAR bashers, and keep out of the way as much as they can. They'll only over-rule the ref if they think it should have been clear and obvious to the ref.
I believe this is how it's being implemented in the PL at least. Possibly different in other leagues and UEFA comps? Unless I have it wrong.