Clarkson commented that he "couldn't enjoy a chocolate Magnum ice cream" in the cream leather interiors of a Rolls Royce, only for Hammond to reply with: "It's all right, I don't eat ice cream. It's got something to do with being straight."

The joke, which appeared to be scripted, sparked a second of shocked silence from the studio audience before some members started laughing.

Clarkson and co-presenter James May also seemed taken aback, questioning Hammond's response: "Are you saying that everyone who likes ice cream...?" started Clarkson, prompting Hammond to reply: "Ice cream is a bit... y'know".