US congressman brands Jackson 'a pervert'

New York congressman Pete King has described Michael Jackson as a "pervert" and a "paedophile" and hit out at journalists for their positive coverage of the star since his death.

In a video posted by FriendsofPeteKing on YouTube, the Republican politician argued that it was wrong for "this low-life" Michael Jackson to receive such coverage when policemen, firefighters, soldiers and teachers do not get their due recognition.

King said: "Let's knock out the psychobabble. This guy was a pervert, he was a child molester, he was a paedophile and to be giving this much coverage to him day-in, day-out, what does it say about us as a country?

"We're too politically correct. No-one wants to stand up and say we don't need Michael Jackson. He died, he had some talent, fine. People are dying every day."

He added: "I really think the media has disgraced itself. I think too many people in public life have made fools of themselves by talking about Michael Jackson as if he's some kind of hero.

"There's nothing good about this guy. He may have been a a good singer, did some dancing. But the bottom line is would you let your child or grandchildren be in the same room with Michael Jackson?"