Radio Norfolk host Nick Conrad faces inquiry after saying during live discussion that women ‘should keep their knickers on’

The UK media regulator has launched an investigation into comments made by BBC Radio Norfolk DJ Nick Conrad during a discussion about convicted rapist Ched Evans.

Ofcom, which has received almost 50 complaints about the incident, is investigating whether the comments are in breach of the UK broadcasting code relating to generally accepted standards.

In a live debate last month about the former Sheffield United footballer’s attempt to resume his career, Conrad said women should “keep their knickers on”, adding: “It’s the old adage about if you yank a dog’s, tale then don’t be surprised when it bites you.”

“Ofcom is currently investigating whether the use of derogatory language against women in this live debate about convicted rapist Ched Evans met generally accepted standards,” said a spokesman for Ofcom.

Conrad went on to say: “I think women need to be more aware of a man’s sexual desire; that when you’re in that position that you are about to engage in sexual activity, there’s a huge amount of energy in the male body, there’s a huge amount of will and intent, and it’s very difficult for many men to say no when they are whipped up into a bit of a storm.

“What I’m trying to say is that women also have to understand that when a man’s given certain signals, he’ll wish to act upon them and if you don’t wish to give out the wrong signals, it’s best probably to keep your knickers on and not get into bed with him. Does that make sense?”

BBC Radio Norfolk talkshow host Nick Conrad. Photograph: Simon Finlay/Archant

In the subsequent apology, a BBC Radio Norfolk spokesperson said: “As part of a wide-ranging discussion where Nick invited the listeners to talk frankly about the Ched Evans case, he made it clear that rape is an abhorrent act. BBC management has told Nick that some of his comments were very ill-judged and he has apologised for any offence that may have been caused.”

Conrad also apologised, saying some of his comments were “ill-judged and were offensive to some”.

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