Capital's Foxy gets dressing down for on-air gypsy insult

LONDON – Capital Radio DJ Neil 'Foxy' Fox has been criticised by media watchdog Ofcom for referring to gypsies as 'gyppos' on his drivetime show.

Ofcom agreed with a listener complaint that the reference was derogatory, but welcomed moves made by Capital following the remark, which was broadcast on 95.8 Capital FM on September 14.

This included an on-air apology made by the presenter, unprompted by any complaint and following a dressing down from 95.8 Capital FM's managing director Keith Pringle, who was listening to the show at the time.

In its response to Ofcom, Capital Radio also pledged that future training would take place underlining "that such language is not acceptable on air".

Ofcom, which considers the matter resolved, said: "We agree that the derogatory reference to gypsies was unacceptable. However, we welcome the swift action taken by the broadcaster and the apology given."

On a similar theme, Key 103's mid-morning presenter Steve Penk has also came under fire from Ofcom, following "offensive" remarks about people who stammer, made on October 15.

Four listeners complained after Penk said he found those with stammers "very funny". Ofcom said it also considers the matter resolved because the station took immediate action, with Penk even apologising directly to one listener by telephone.

Ofcom has also announced that a complaint levelled at comedian Jeremy Hardy, following his suggestion that BNP voters should be "shot in the back of the head" has now also been resolved.

Hardy made the remark on his BBC Radio 4 show 'Jeremy Hardy Speaks to the Nation' on September 9. Ofcom said it did not think the remarks were intended to endorse violent behaviour.

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