John Galliano apologises for behaviour

John Galliano has apologised for his alleged anti-Semitic remarks.

The designer - who was sacked from fashion house Christian Dior earlier this week after reportedly abusing a couple during a drunken rant in Paris - has spoken out about the incident and says he regrets the offence he has caused by his actions.

He said: "Anti-Semitism and racism have no part in our society. I unreservedly apologise for my behaviour in causing any offence."

However, Galliano - who has checked into an unnamed rehab facility - says he was provoked during the incident and is taking legal action against the couple.

He said: "I was subjected to verbal harassment and an unprovoked assault when an individual tried to hit me with a chair having taken violent exception to my look and my clothing.

"For these reasons I have commenced proceedings for defamation and the threats made against me."

As well as allegedly verbally abusing the couple, Galliano was filmed making anti-Semitic remarks during a night in which he announced his love for Nazi leader Adolf Hitler.