Wales head coach Warren Gatland has offered an apology after describing an abusive comment aimed at Samson Lee as "just banter".

England's Joe Marler is currently being investigated for making the remark, in which he is alleged to have called his opponent a "Gypsy boy" during last Saturday's meeting at Twickenham.

Speaking after the Six Nations clash, Gatland tried to play down the matter by brushing it aside, but the New Zealand native was largely criticised for failing to condemn Marler's choice of words.

In a further attempt to draw a line under the matter, Gatland said in a statement today: "I don't condone racism of any kind. I apologise for any offence my use of the word banter may have caused.

"My intention was to take the focus away from Samson, a private individual, and enable him and the rest of squad to prepare for the final game of the championship.

"My comments were made following a discussion with Samson about the incident. I personally believe the comments to have been intended as banter and accepted Joe's apology."

The Welsh Rugby Union added: "The WRU does not condone racism of any kind. The incident is being investigated by the Six Nations and we would welcome a definitive and speedy conclusion to their investigation."

Marler was cleared on Wednesday afternoon of striking Rob Evans during a separate incident in the first half of England's 25-21 triumph.