The Prime Minister took time out of his schedule last night to record a guest appearance in an episode of US cartoon series The Simpsons.

Sources told The Mirror today that his appearance in the episode, which sees the Simpson family take a visit to London, was planned months before the war on Iraq began.

"He’s a big fan of The Simpsons," one said. "He knows he might get some criticism because of the timing but this was in the diary long before the war with Iraq began. We believe it will greatly benefit tourism and help bring Americans back to London."

Other British stars being lined up for the episode include Harry Potter author JK Rowling, Sir Ian McKellen and Eric Idle. 'Regina Monologues' will air in the UK in November.