Former Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson has responded to actress Kristin Scott-Thomas’ assertion that French cuisine surpasses British food, defending locally sourced produce with strong words.

During an episode of the Table Manners podcast with Jessie and Lennie Ware, Kristin, who has French heritage, expressed her preference for French cooking due to what she perceives as higher-quality ingredients compared to those available in the UK.

In a counter argument in the Sunday Times, Clarkson disputed Kristin’s claim, stating his support for British farming and meat quality. He emphasized the impact of climate change on enhancing food production in England, especially in growing crops like tomatoes and producing wine.

While acknowledging France’s superior shopping experience for fresh produce, Clarkson suggested that local authorities should focus on improving local markets to create a more vibrant and enjoyable shopping environment. He proposed relaxing certain regulations to encourage local farmers’ markets, but stressed the importance of maintaining rules to ensure only local producers participate.

Clarkson’s vision includes transforming market days into significant weekly events, suggesting measures like lifting parking restrictions, allowing temporary extensions of cafes onto pavements, and easing rules for street performers to enhance the overall shopping experience.

By prioritizing fun and community engagement in food shopping, Clarkson believes it will lead to better cooking and ultimately, better-tasting meals.