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Public reaction to the episode has been overwhelming and the tally of complaints to Ofcom surged overnight from 7,600 to a record 14,500 by 8.30am this morning. The previous record was 9,000 about 'Jerry Springer: The Opera' in 2004.

Channel 4's press office has put the figure of complaints it has received by last night at 2,000.

The controversy appears to have reawakened viewer interest in the show. Last night's audience was 4.5m representing a 18.6% share, compared with Monday night's 3.5m viewers and 14% share.

The furore was sparked by a number of verbal attacks on Indian housemate Shilpa by fellow celebrities Jade, her mother Jackiey, now evicted from the house, boyfriend Jack, disgraced former Miss Great Britain Danielle and ex-S-Club star Jo.

Shilpa has been asked whether she lived in a shack and her accent has been mocked by Jade, and when she made food for the group, Danielle said: "You don't know where those hands have been."

Allegations that a bleeped-out comment by Jack referred to Shilpa as "a Paki" have been denied by Channel 4, which claimed the word he used the word "c**t".

Jackiey referred to Shilpa as "the Indian" and asked her "Do you live in a house or a shack?".

The treatment was yesterday condemned by comedy actress Meera Syal as "vile spectacle" and "bullying".

"What this treatment of Shilpa has done is remind a lot of Asian people in Britain of the type of uncomfortable treatment they've received themselves over the years."

Labour MP Keith Vaz tabled an early day motion in Parliament calling for the housemates to be reminded that racist behaviour is unacceptable.

"'Big Brother' has a role to play in preventing racist behaviour in the 'Big Brother' house; regrets that these comments have been made; and calls on the programme to take urgent action to remind housemates that racist behaviour is unacceptable."

Channel 4's press office appeared not to have a clear idea of the number of complaints it had received, but is putting the figure at between 1,000 and 2,000.

In addition, one person has complained to the police, who will today consider whether to begin an investigation. The police have also been made aware of emails received by the 'Big Brother' studios making threats against a number of the housemates.

Carphone Warehouse refused to comment yesterday lunchtime, but last night founder Charles Dunstone spoke to the media to say: "We are talking to Channel 4. The sponsorship is constantly under review. We are against racism."

Channel 4 said: "We don't tolerate any racist abuse in any form. Big Brother is closely monitoring all the housemates and will take appropriate measures to reprimand such behaviour where necessary.

"The social interactions and dynamics of the group are one of the key parts of the 'Big Brother' story and viewers have a right to see these portrayed accurately. However, this is balanced with our duty not to broadcast material that may cause unjustifiable offence."

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