British prime minister Gordon Brown has criticised X Factor twins John and Edward.

Brown was asked to give his opinion of the 18-year-old Irish brothers – dubbed Jedward – during a question and answer session in Manchester.

The prime minister said he thought the pair were “not very good” but admitted he was a fan of the programme.

"There are some really good people on X Factor. It's really good,” Mr Brown said.

“And I know it's competing with Strictly Come Dancing.”

Mr Brown then asked the audience at radio station Key 103 if anyone liked John and Edward and only two people said yes.

The twins have proved hugely popular with X Factor voters even though there are doubts over their singing abilities.

They are expected to perform the Ghostbusters theme this Saturday.