Sir Paul McCartney has called the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico “a disgrace”.

The former Beatle discussed the disaster, which could go on until August, at a press conference in Washington on Tuesday (June 1).

Sir Paul told reporters that those responsible should know how to cap a leak if they are to be allowed to continue drilling at the seabed.

BP’s attempts to stop the spillage, which is the largest in America’s history, have so far failed.

Sir Paul was speaking ahead of being presented with The Gershwin Prize for Popular Song by the Library of Congress.

Sir Paul said he was honoured to have been recognised and was looking forward to collecting the award from President Barack Obama today (June 2).

"For an English kid growing up in Liverpool, the White House — that's pretty special," he said.

According to AP, when asked about Obama, Sir Paul replied: "He's a great guy, so lay off him."

The previous recipients of the prize were Paul Simon and Stevie Wonder.

(by Jason Gregory)