Australia's Big Bother apologises to Mexico

CANBERRA, June 22 (Reuters) Producers of Australia's version of the Big Brother televison programme apologised to Mexico today after contestants threw goo-filled balloons at the Mexican flag.

The Mexican government complained to Australia's media regulator after the show's ''Mexican Night'' featured contestants in mariachi outfits playing musical chairs and eating chili con carne -- a dish almost unknown in Mexico -- to win points.

But Mexico was angry at one game where contestants in one team had to protect the Mexican flag against slime balloons thrown by the rival team.

''(We) demand they take adequate measures to avoid this type of incident in the future,'' Mexico's foreign ministry said, adding the use of the flag was ''offensive''.

Producers of Australia's Big Brother, Endemol Southern Star, said it had written to Mexico's embassy in Canberra to apologise for the segment, broadcast on June 15.

''Big Brother intended no offence to any person, country or institution and has apologised for any offence caused,'' Endemol Southern Star said in a statement released today.

''Friday Night Live is themed each week and June 15's Mexican night was designed as a tribute to Mexico and its vibrant cultural heritage.

''In addition to their apologies, Big Brother's producers have assured the Mexican government that something like this would never happen again.'' Mexican authorities are extremely protective of national symbols and have a strict code about when, where and how to use them.

Reuters KK GC1017