Jeremy Clarkson's controversial remark that sparked more than 30,000 complaints

is known for being outspoken and it's no secret that this has landed him in hot water on several occasions over the years. During a 2011 appearance on BBC's , the star, who turns 65 today, sparked outrage when he made controversial remarks about a UK public sector strike happening the same day. Speaking to presenters and Matt Baker, Clarkson was asked his opinion of those striking over pensions. This prompted him to joke that he would take strikers outside "and execute them in front of their families".

He said: "I think they have been fantastic. Absolutely. London today has just been empty. Everybody stayed at home, you can whizz about, restaurants are empty. We have to balance this though, because this is the BBC. Frankly, I'd have them all shot. I would take them outside and execute them in front of their families." The former presenter added: "I mean how dare they go on strike when they have got these guilt-edged pensions that are going to be guaranteed while the rest of us have to work for a living."

The remarks sparked 31,000 complaints to the BBC, while launched its own investigation after receiving 736 grievances. However, while it was acknowledged that the comments were "potentially offensive", Ofcom ruled that they were not in breach of broadcasting guidelines and "were not made seriously".

Ofcom also pointed out that Jones, 48, had made a "wide-ranging apology" regarding Clarkson's comments at the end of the programme.

They also claimed that "it would have been clear to most viewers that his comments were not an expression of seriously held beliefs or views that would be literally interpreted".

The later apologised for any offence caused. A Unison spokesperson said: "As Ofcom acknowledges, a lot of people - including many Unison members working in the public sector - were outraged by 's comments. We felt it was important to make their voices heard."

The comments led Unison and viewers to call for the presenter to be sacked by the broadcaster. Mark Thompson, who was the BBC director general at the time, said the comments were made "entirely in jest" and that firing Clarkson would have set the wrong precedent.

Thompson said: "Were we to sack him for saying something pretty stupid that would set precedents that mean a lot of people would never get to broadcast. Although clearly he's a polarising figure for the BBC, there are many millions of people who enjoy and support Jeremy Clarkson."

"He added: "That has to be balanced against a couple of flippant remarks in one programme."

Clarkson later apologised for the remarks, saying: "I didn't for a moment intend these remarks to be taken seriously - as I believe is clear, if they're seen in context. If the BBC and I have caused any offence, I'm quite happy to apologise for it alongside them."