Jeremy Clarkson public sector comments 'pre-arranged with BBC'

Jeremy Clarkson and the BBC pre-arranged the public sector 'execution' joke which caused uproar, reports suggest.

Clarkson apologised after making comments that he would execute all public sector workers involved in strikes on Wednesday but the Top Gear presenter has reportedly told The Times that the joke had been cleared with The One Show producers. Over 21,000 people have complained to the BBC about the jibe. 

Interviewed on BBC’s The One Show, Clarkson said he would have those who walked out across the UK shot. “I would take them [strikers] outside and execute them in front of their families,” he admitted.

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

In response to the outburst trade union Unison called for Clarkson's dismissal and said that they are taking “urgent” legal advice.

“Clarkson’s comments on the One Show were totally outrageous, and they cannot be tolerated,” said Unison general secretary Dave Prentis. “Public sector workers and their families are utterly shocked by Jeremy Clarkson’s revolting comments. An apology is not enough- we are calling on the BBC to sack Jeremy Clarkson immediately. Such disgusting comments have no place on our TV screens."

“Jeremy Clarkson clearly needs a reminder of just who he is talking about when he calls for public sector workers to be shot in front of their families," he added. "Whilst he is driving round in fast cars for a living, public sector workers are busy holding our society together - they save others lives on a daily basis, they care for the sick, the vulnerable, the elderly".

Clarkson later apologised for the comments after a strong reaction. "If BBC and I have caused any offence, I'm quite happy to apologise alongside them," the Top Gear presenter said. An on-air apology was made during The One Show and the BBC added that the "item was not perfectly judged".