Clarkson Apologises For Gordon Brown Jibe

Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson has apologised for branding Prime Minister Gordon Brown a "one-eyed Scottish idiot".

The 48-year-old, said: "In the heat of the moment I made a remark about the Prime Minister's personal appearance for which, upon refection, I apologise."

Clarkson, who is in Australia to host Top Gear Live, a stage version of the hit BBC show, made the comments at a press conference in Sydney.

Clarkson compared Mr Brown with the Australian Prime Minister, after Kevin Rudd had just addressed the country on the global financial crisis.

According to reports in The Australia newspaper, Clarkson said: "It's the first time I've ever seen a world leader [Mr Rudd] admit we really are in deep s**t. He looked genuinely terrified.

"Poor man - he's actually seen the books. We have this one-eyed Scottish idiot who keeps telling us everything's fine and he’s saved the world and we know he's lying, but he's smooth at telling us."

Mr brown lost his sight in one eye following an accident playing rugby as a teenager.

The controversial TV presenter's comments were met with outrage from Scottish politicians.

Gordon Banks, Labour MP for Ochil and South Pershire, called the remark "unforgivable", while former Labour Scottish minister, Lord Foulkes said he was "outraged" at the comments.

"If the BBC banned Jonathan Ross for what he said and they have taken Carol Thatcher off air for something she said in private, then something should be done about Clarkson," he said.

"He has insulted Gordon Brown three times over: accusing him of being a liar, having a go at him for having a physical handicap, and for his nationality.

"It is an absolute outrage of the worst kind."

The BBC said it noted Clarkson's apology for the comments and would be taking no further action.

Number 10 also said that Clarkson "is entitled to his own interpretation of the economic circumstances".

(JM/BMcC)