Mr Leslie has told of his relief at being cleared

A spokesman for Mr Leslie said he was "very excited" by the offer from digital channel Sky One.

He said Sky had approached Mr Leslie a couple of months ago to discuss the possibilities - despite the uncertainty over his future.

Sky One declined to give an immediate comment.

Mr Leslie's spokesman said: "Sky One have offered him his own one-hour talk show, aired five days a week, and starting in October.

"He's absolutely delighted with it and although he has been made a number of offers from other TV channels and production companies, this is obviously a very significant offer."

The spokesman added: "This hasn't materialised today. It's something they have been considering for months. It would move John from day-time television to prime-time."