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'Top Gear' in trot water again over its Indian special

 

Robert de
Friday 13 January 2012 06:00 EST
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Jeremy Clarkson has now succeeded in embroiling the Prime Minister in a diplomatic contretemps with India
Jeremy Clarkson has now succeeded in embroiling the Prime Minister in a diplomatic contretemps with India (PA)

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Indian diplomats have complained to the BBC about a "disgusting" episode of Top Gear filmed in the country. The 90-minute India special showed Jeremy Clarkson talking to locals in his boxer shorts and included a car fitted with a toilet in the boot which he said was "perfect for India because everyone who comes here gets the trots".

Raja Sekhar from the Indian High Commission in London said a letter had been sent to the BBC to "convey our strong disappointment". He said: "We were very actively helping out, facilitating the visit, but they ran down the whole society, culture and people.

"It's really disgusting. We have a very close relationship with and respect for the BBC. The BBC is probably more admired in India than in England, so we feel a bit let down."

It is not the first time the show has run into trouble after venturing abroad. The BBC was forced to apologise to the Mexican ambassador last year after remarks made by Clarkson and co-hosts James May and Richard Hammond. Hammond said Mexican cars reflected national characteristics, saying they were "just going to be lazy, feckless, flatulent".

A BBC spokeswoman said: "We have received a letter from the Indian High Commission and will respond to them in due course."

The show started with its three co-hosts outside Downing Street, reading from a letter Clarkson said was from Prime Minister David Cameron. The show also included a scene where Mr Cameron appears to wave at the trio, telling them: "Stay away from India."

Asked whether Mr Cameron regretted his involvement in the programme, the PM's spokesman said: "The BBC are able to film in Downing Street, as are other broadcast companies. They were in the street and he was leaving for an event."

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