Clarkson says sorry

Jeremy Clarkson today apologised for his comment on BBC1's The One Show that people who took part on yesterday's national strike ``should be shot''.

eremy Clarkson today apologised for saying striking workers “should be shot”.

The Top Gear host – who made his comments during BBC1’s The One Show last night - said he did not intend the remarks to be taken seriously.

His words had been widely condemned throughout the day by politicians and union leaders.

The BBC also offered an apology for the remarks and said the item “wasn’t perfectly judged”.

By this afternoon the BBC had received more than 4,700 complaints about the comments.

Prime Minister David Cameron and Labour leader Ed Miliband were among those who took a dim view of the words uttered by the controversial TV presenter and columnist.

Clarkson said today: “I didn’t for a moment intend these remarks to be taken seriously – as I believe is clear if they’re seen in context.

“If the BBC and I have caused any offence, I’m quite happy to apologise for it alongside them.”

The BBC said: “The One Show is a live topical programme which often reflects the day’s talking points.

“Usually we get it right, but on this occasion we feel the item wasn’t perfectly judged. The BBC and Jeremy would like to apologise for any offence caused.”

Clarkson made the gaffe as he appeared on the show on the evening of Britain’s biggest public sector strikes in 30 years.

He said of the strikers: “I’d have them all shot. I would take them outside and execute them in front of their families.

“I mean, how dare they go on strike when they’ve got these gilt-edged pensions that are going to be guaranteed while the rest of us have to work for a living.”

The broadcaster’s comments sparked hundreds of angry comments on Twitter.