Homer's 7pm language passes TV standards test

The use of the words "wanker" and "ass" in an episode of The Simpsons cartoon did not contravene standards of good taste and decency, the Broadcasting Standards Authority has ruled.

Viewer Bob McCoskrie complained to the authority last year after seeing the episode in the 7pm slot on TV3.

In the programme Homer Simpson described his favourite programme about a family of English soccer hooligans, saying "if they're not having a go with a bird they're having a row with a wanker".

Later in the same episode another character said "it's a beautiful day to kick your ass".

Mr McCoskrie complained that the use of the words "wanker" and "ass" were offensive and the show was not appropriate in a time slot where children could be watching.

But the authority said it agreed with TV3's assessment that the show and its content were appropriate for 7pm viewing.

The show had a parental guidance required (PGR) rating and was known for its "highly satirical tone that is aimed at a more mature audience than other cartoons".

The authority also dismissed a complaint against Radio New Zealand's Off the Wire show in which a participant used the word "munted" in a discussion of disabled athletes' disabilities.

The authority found that the remark, by wheelchair-bound comedian Mike Loder, was sympathetic to disabled people rather than seeking to denigrate them.

Mr Loder was criticising the International Paralympics Committee for not allowing an athlete to participate in an event.

- NZPA