BBC’s Falkland’s ‘Top Gear’ to air

The BBC motoring hit Top Gear show that sparked a diplomatic incident in Argentina forms part of the BBC’s Christmas schedule despite continuing complaints from the South American country’s government.

The BBC announced its festive season on the same day a letter from the Argentinian ambassador in London criticising the corporation was made public.

Alicia Castro wrote to BBC Trust chairwoman Rona Fairhead expressing her “discontent” after a meeting with BBC director of television Danny Cohen.

The motoring show’s crew fled Argentina after trouble erupted when it emerged they were using a Porsche with the registration number H982 FKL, which some people suggested could refer to the Falklands conflict of 1982.

Top Gear executive producer Andy Wilman has denied the number plate was a “stunt” and presenter Jeremy Clarkson said he was shocked when someone pointed out the link between the number plate and the war, days into filming.

Ms Castro subsequently met Mr Cohen, but he refused her demand for a public apology and said the BBC would screen the show.