Sir Arthur denied allegations of child abuse when the story was published in February, but police in Sri Lanka, where Mr Clarke lives, launched an investigation.

On Wednesday they threatened to end their inquiries unless the Mirror handed over its taped evidence.

Interpol said the paper's failure to co-operate was hampering its efforts.

In one of its first public comments relating to the story, a Mirror spokesman said that a recording of the interview would be sent as soon as possible.

He also said they would consider sending a representative to Sri Lanka if they were asked to do so.

The newspaper believes its actions have been misunderstood. It says that earlier this year it sent a recording of the interview to Interpol, who failed to let them know they had not received it.

Tape central to inquiry

On Wednesday the Sri Lankan Government Additional Solicitor-General, C. R. de Silva, said: "We have approached Interpol. Our embassy in London did its best. In short, we did everything, but the tape has not come."

He added: "Our investigations in Sri Lanka have not found any evidence against him. Keeping this in view, and the situation that we are unable to get the tape, we will have no option but to close the case."

The Sunday Mirror published its story days before the 80-year-old writer was to be knighted by Prince Charles in Sri Lanka. The ceremony was postponed at Sir Arthur's request.

Sir Arthur said he was outraged by the story, which he said was untrue.