The BBC could have to pay millions in compensation to foreign broadcasters after the suspension of Jeremy Clarkson, as it emerged yesterday that the presenter’s “fracas” with a producer was caused by a row over a cheese platter.
The global success of Top Gear means that holes have been created in TV schedules across the globe during the programme’s enforced hiatus.
BBC Worldwide, the corporation’s commercial division, will offer alternative programmes but could be forced to make payouts or renegotiate contracts in many of the 170 counties where Top Gear is broadcast.
Details emerged yesterday of the row, in which Clarkson allegedly aimed a punch at Oisin Tymon, a producer, at a hotel in North Yorkshire.
A member of staff at Simonstone Hall in Hawes said that the presenter had arrived by helicopter at 10pm after a day’s filming — two hours later than planned. He found the hotel restaurant shut and no hot food available.
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He was offered a cheese or meat platter or bar snacks but allegedly threw a “child’s tantrum” until a steak sandwich was prepared. A member of staff, who asked not to be named, said: “I didn’t see any pushing or shoving, but he was swearing and the manager was trying to calm the situation.”
There was speculation yesterday that Clarkson may quit the BBC when his contract finishes at the end of the month. As more than half a million signed a petition to back his reinstatement, David Cameron entered the fray. He described his friend and constituent as a “huge talent” and said his children would be “heartbroken” if he left.