ZANE LOWE SWEARS INTO TROUBLE

Radio One have been given a big ticking off for the not-entirely-helpful warning of bad language at the start of Zane Lowe's Most Punk back in June.

Zane's introduction, delivered by an old lady, was pretty much like this:

“Hello ladies, boys and girls, I thought that you might like to know - in the spirit of punk rock – the following show includes, what we often refer to as language. So if, like me, you are offended by such words and phrases as: arse; bollocks; tit, wank; tit-wank; rotter; mother licker; mother sucker; mother fucker; twat; minge juice; bottler and of course bastard – then you might wish to turn over, or fuck off – thank you”.

Ofcom wasn't amused:

The programme was an examination of punk culture. It was therefore inevitably likely to include some material that contained strong language and a warning was given. The ‘elderly lady’ was clearly intended to be ironic and provide a humorous introduction to the programme. We therefore appreciate the editorial technique that the BBC was trying to use, with the use of labelling and warnings.

Broadcasters have the right to transmit, and listeners the right to receive, material which may offend some people but uses strong language to explore artistic and creative themes. However, the right to deal with such subject matter comes with the responsibility of ensuring material is appropriately scheduled with the potential child audience in mind. While this was a legitimate approach, its application here was seriously misguided.

music radio one zane lowe radio