Managing External Content Types - make it read only?

I have a simple SharePoint list with an External Data column. When I edit item where the corresponding data was removed from the External Content Type I get this error:
No exact match was found. Click the item(s) that did not resolve for more options. You can also use Select button to
choose External Data.
I assume this is by design and I cannot delete underlying data and keep the value in the list - is this correct?
So my question now - is it possible to keep that info in the external list but disable in a picker so new records cannot be created with that particular value? How do I do it?
Thanks,

I don't understand the question exactly, could you restate it.  Sorry mate, I might just be braindead.
But, as far as the issue, it is by design.  the column is a lookup columns which essentially ties to the external data.  if that data is removed, the column on your simple list becomes invalid and any edits of the simple list item will require
it to be changed.
are you wanting to make the ECT read only?  that's simple enough.  you can pop open SPD and edit the ECT, then remove the C/E/D operations (create/update/delete).  That will not, however make it read-only in any other systems that access that
external data, as I assume its not just SP or else it wouldn't be external
Christopher Webb | MCM: SharePoint 2010 | MCSM: SharePoint Charter | MCT | http://christophermichaelwebb.com

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