On Holby last night there was a story where a Chinese man who spoke no English had been admitted to hospital. He had a bag on the bed with him and one of the Doctors said 'I wonder whats in the bag - maybe cockles?' I'm surprised there wasnt an outrage at this line obviously in reference to the deaths on Morecambe beach several years ago.
I think it was meant to be part of the story. There a whole race row thing going on with that dozy bint (yep i fink its real). Maybe it will be bought up at a later date.
Even if you think it's a racist comment, it was one character in the drama saying it - not the opinion of the whole programme or the producers. Very likely that some twit would say that in real life - so it's just reflecting reality.