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Jeremy Clarkson racism allegations: Michael Gove defends Top Gear presenter after apology

The Education Secretary voiced his opinion on the Top Gear presenter during Good Morning Britain

Jenn Selby
Friday 02 May 2014 14:05 BST
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The Education Secretary Michael Gove has said that he believes there is no need for the BBC to terminate its contract with Jeremy Clarkson, after unbroadcast footage of the Top Gear presenter allegedly using the racist term ‘n*****r’ while reciting a nursery rhyme was leaked to the media.

“As I understand Jeremy Clarkson has apologised, the word in question is horrendous and shouldn’t be used,” he said on Good Morning Britain.

James May: 'Jeremy Clarkson Is Not A Racist'

“It seems to me this was a word he never intended to mutter, never intended to broadcast, he’s been clear in his apology and I think we should leave the matter there.”

His comments comes after a spokesperson for Prime Minister David Cameron, who is friends with Clarkson, said the use of the ‘n-word’ was “quite wrong”.

“If there are these reports and allegations, I am sure that is something the BBC would look at.”

The BBC has since described the incident as “regrettable”.

“We have left him in no doubt about how seriously we view this,” a statement from the broadcaster read.

Clarkson issued a filmed apology via his Twitter page last night.

In it, he admitted to having used the word, but said he did “everything in my power” not to.

“I'm sitting here begging your forgiveness for the fact my efforts obviously weren't quite good enough, thank you,” he said in the film.

Footage of the offending comments was published on The Mirror’s website yesterday. In it, he recites the well-known children’s rhyme, apparently mumbling, “Catch a n****r by his toe.” He initially dismissed the clip, writing on Twitter:

“I did not use the N-word. Never use it. The Mirror has gone way too far this time.”

READ MORE: CLARKSON DENIES RACISM ALLEGATIONS
CLARKSON CALLS HIS BLACK DOG DIDIER DOGBA
CLARKSON'S POORLY TIMED MALAYSIAN TWEET

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