Rude word acceptable in TV spheres

Saying 'bollocks' on television was not offensive despite a flood of complaints following a beer advertisement, it was ruled yesterday.

It was decided the word - slang for testicles - was acceptable after a study of its use in Britain and Australia, the Broadcasting Authority said. The context of the advertisement, its target audience and its broadcast time, which was outside family viewing hours, was also considered.

The authority had also issued TVB with a warning after a presenter swore on air in the Tung Wah Charity Show in December.

The person had not realised his microphone was on and was caught using language considered 'a foul expression which was likely to offend the average viewer'.

The programme also showed an artiste covering his head with a plastic bag.

This was considered dangerous and could invite imitation by children.