Simpson comments spark race row

Jessica Simpson has sparked a race row after using a racial stereotype in a recent interview.

The star, who recently became single after breaking up with American football quarterback Tony Romo, caused outrage in the Native American community with her comment.

After being asked by TMZ if she would take back the speedboat she bought for her now ex-boyfriend, the singer said: "I'm not an Indian giver."

The phrase, which refers to someone who gives a gift and then takes it back, is said to be based on the stereotype that Native American people are untrustworthy.

Jacqueline L. Pata, executive director of the National Congress of American Indians, said: "Most people flippantly use the comment 'Indian giver' without realising its true meaning.

"Jessica's comment provides us with a good chance to educate people not to stereotype Native Americans by using a comment that is both incorrect in the way most people use it, and culturally insensitive to Native people."

Simpson is rumoured to be "devastated" by recent claims that Romo was having an "emotional affair" with another woman in the months before they split.