Topolánek angered by publication of off the record comments about the Church

Former Czech prime minister Mirek Topolánek has reacted angrily to the publication of off the record comments he made during a photo shoot for a gay magazine. The website blesk.cz posted a video recording from the photo session in which the Civic Democrats chairman says the Church brainwashed its followers and made idiots out of the masses. Mr Topolánek said he resented the fact than an informal interview had been made public, saying he had actually proclaimed strong links to Christianity. He said he had not wished to offend either the contemporary Church or worshippers. The photos were being taken to accompany an interview Mr Topolánek gave to the gay magazine LUI.