'Terror Expert' Sorry For Saying Birmingham Is 'No-Go' For Non-Muslims

12 January 2015, 16:05 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

The Prime Minister says an apology is a good start after a 'terror expert' claimed on TV in the US Birmingham is a "no-go" area for non-Muslims.

Steven Emerson was forced to apologise after he said "there are actual cities like Birmingham that are totally Muslim, where non-Muslims just simply don't go in'', while appearing on the Fox News TV channel.

His comments were broadcast live on the network to households around the globe.

The Prime Minister told Capital "An apology is a good start, I was listening to the radio this morning and I nearly chocked on my porridge when I heard this"

Listen to the Heart's interview with David Cameron about this:

David Cameron talks to Capital about Steve Emerson's comments

People in Birmingham quickly took to social media to criticise Mr Emerson, whose own website states he is an "internationally recognised expert on terrorism and national security''.

He later apologised for his "terrible error'' regarding :the beautiful city of Birmingham'' and suggested the remarks had been down to "other sources''.

Mr Emerson also stated his intention to make a donation to Birmingham Children's Hospital.

But people in Birmingham are still angry and a petition has been set up calling on Fox News to issue an apology on air for the comments.

Birmingham Perry Barr MP Khalis Mahmood spoke to Capital:

Khalid Mahmood comments on Steve Emerson's claims about Birmingham

Birmingham Ladywood MP Shabana Mahmood told Capital It's "Bizarre. Ridiculous. Nonsense. These are the only words I can use to describe the statement made by Steve Emerson. His apology is welcome but frankly the fact that anyone in his line of work could even hold those views is concerning."

Cllr James McKay, Cabinet Member for Social Cohesion, Equalities and Community Safety, at Birmingham City Council said: "These curious comments clearly have no foundation, and it's good to see an apology has been issued.

"Birmingham's an incredible place, rightly held up as an example of how communities can and do live and thrive together.

"We are amazingly diverse, and that's one of the things that makes us brilliant. All this fuss is a reminder of how it's always best to check your facts before getting into a debate.

"Maybe Fox News could come and visit sometime, and see for themselves what a great city we have here?"