BBC calls Mexicans lazy and feckless – apologizes

Image via Wikipedia

The BBC was left somewhat red faced when it apologized to Mexico's London ambassador after commentators on the auto show "Top Gear" described Mexicans as lazy and feckless. Still, the broadcaster defended the remarks, saying the stereotypes used were part of the humour of the show and Britain in general.

The ambassador was infuriated by "offensive and xenophobic" remarks made by the hosts during Sunday's edition of the show, which has been sold to television channels around the world.

Actually, the Mexicans got off easy. Given the almost daily drug violence and what seems like open season on Canadian tourists, it could have been much worse. Better to be stereotyped as lazy than killers.

Related articles

• Can Top Gear laugh off its Mexican insults? | Rodrigo Camarena (guardian.co.uk)
• Steve Coogan attacks Top Gear's 'ignorant' stars (guardian.co.uk)
• 17 killed in Mexico drug violence (calgaryherald.com)
• Canadians allege rape, assault by Mexican police (globaltvbc.com)
• American warns of Mexico resort dangers (cbc.ca)