Clarkson in hot water for Brown comments

Friday, 6 February 2009 12:00 AM

By Laura Miller

The prime minister is a "one-eyed Scottish idiot," according to Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson.

Made during a promotional visit to Australia, Clarkson's comments have outraged ministers back in Whitehall, who have accused the presenter of an "anti-Scottish" attitude.

Gordon Banks, Labour MP for Ochil and South Perthshire, said: "To personally insult anyone in the manner [Clarkson] has done is unforgivable. For it to be directed at the prime minister is beyond the pale."

Mr Clarkson issued an apology for the comment this afternoon: "In the heat of the moment I made a remark about the prime minister's physical appearanece for which, upon reflection, I apologise."

Comparing Mr Brown to Australian PM Kevin Rudd, Clarkson said of Rudd: "It's the first time I've ever seen a world leader admit we really are in deep s***. He looked genuinely terrified."

He added: "Poor man - he's actually seen the books. We have this one-eyed Scottish idiot. 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 the sight in his left eye aged 16 after a team-mate inflicted a head blow during a school rugby game.

Months in hospital followed, and after a series of painful operations and pioneering surgery his right eye was saved, though he still suffers problems with his sight.

Scottish Labour leader Iain Gray said Clarkson's comments were a reflection on the presenter, not the prime minister.

"Most people [in Scotland] are proud that the prime minister is a Scot and believe him to be the right person to get the UK through this global economic crisis."

Echoing Mr Gray's criticisms, Lib Dem culture spokesman Iain Smith said the comments reflected the level of maturity and political comment expected from Mr Clarkson.

Nationalist MSP Jamie Hepburn agreed with Mr Clarkson on Mr Brown's claim to have 'saved the world', "but we can all do without this anti-Scottish attitude, whoever it is aimed at," he added.

Mr Clarkson, who is known for his outspoken views, was in Australia to promote his multi-million pound Top Gear franchise.

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