Book fair host sorry for saying he wanted to ‘snog’ Trollope

A SPEAKER at the London Book Fair has apologised for his “crass and offensive” language after introducing Joanna Trollope as a woman he would like to “snog”.

Trollope was taking part in a panel discussion, and Tony Mulliken, chairman of the book fair’s public relations firm, reportedly opened proceedings by saying he had once read that Trollope was “always looking for a great kiss”. He went on: “I often see her in Kensington and think I’d like to give her a snog.”

Clare Mackintosh, the bestselling thriller writer, was in the audience and tweeted her outrage in a series of posts widely shared on social media.

She also made a formal complaint to the book fair’s management and later told The Bookseller the comment was “grossly inappropriate” in the #Metoo era. “I find it abhorrent that someone introducing an author would gloss over their professional achievements in favour of their sexual attributes, particularly at an event designed to inspire authors,” she said.

Mr Mulliken, chairman of Midas PR, said in a statement: “I was wrong to introduce Joanna Trollope as I did… I have the utmost respect for her and I was trying to reference a recent interview Joanna Trollope gave in an irreverent and light-hearted way but I realise that what I said not only missed that mark, but it was crass and offensive… I have apologised to Joanna directly and unreservedly. I have also spoken to Clare Mackintosh and apologised.”

Trollope declined to comment.