The Stage

BBC to fine foul-mouthed DJs as Ofcom rules against Moyles

Published Monday 12 June 2006 at 16:00 by Liz Thomas

Complaints against Radio 1 DJ Chris Moyles for swearing on air on his breakfast show have been upheld by media regulator Ofcom, forcing the BBC to warn presenters that they face fines for such behaviour.

Moyles was under fire from listeners after calling women who urinate in the shower, “dirty whores” and for using the word “fucking” during a live conversation with a caller to the show.

Meanwhile drivetime presenter Scott Mills was deemed to have made a “serious misjudgement” broadcasting a expletive-laden prank call - even though the actual words were bleeped out.

Although the Corporation has already apologised it added that since these incidents, new rules have been put in place, with the result that presenters that swear will be disciplined and fined, while persistent offenders will be taken off air.

In a statement Ofcom said: “We appreciate the wide choice of content that is broadcast by the station. But we have concerns about the number and, in some cases, the seriousness of compliance issues that have arisen.

“We recognise that Radio 1 aims to produce imaginative and innovative programming but the station also attracts a wide-ranging audience, including large numbers of children. It is, therefore, important that the station’s compliance reflects this. Any future similarly serious compliance issues may result in the consideration of further regulatory action.”