The actor says he is a socialist and has always been a Labour supporter, but he believes that the time is right for "a redefining of the United Kingdom and maybe having a United States of Britain or United Federation of Britain".

BBC: Brian Cox plays 'Del Boy's Scottish cousin' - Bob Servant

And he is the first player from the United Kingdom to win a major since Paul Lawrie triumphed in the Open at Carnoustie in 1999.

BBC: US Open: Graeme McDowell triumphs at Pebble Beach

Tuesday, he cited four reasons for his insistence a week earlier to keep Assange in jail: his lack of fixed residence, confusion over when and how he last entered the United Kingdom, the evidence against him in Sweden, and a dispute over whether Assange is wanted only for questioning or for prosecution.

CNN: Sweden to appeal Assange bail decision Thursday