Boyle in hot water over controversial TV jokes

Complaints have now been lodged with broadcasting regulator Ofcom over three different parts of his Channel 4 series Tramadol Nights.

The use of the words "n*****" and "P***" in Tuesday's episode were condemned by Conservative MP John Whittingdalewho branded Boyle "a serial offender".

The MP, who is chairman of the House of Commons Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee, said: "The words n***** and P*** are deeply offensive to a large number of people.

"I don't think even in comedy it is justified," he added.

Channel 4 said the use of the words was "satirical", not racist.

A spokesman said: "Channel 4 strongly refutes any suggestion we are endorsing or condoning racist language by our broadcast of Frankie Boyle's Tramadol Nights.

"This cutting edge comedy is clearly intended to ridicule and

satirise the use of these words – Frankie Boyle was not endorsing them.

"Channel 4 would not have broadcast these words had they been used in a racist way. All the jokes highlight the unacceptable nature of this language."

Ofcom is investigating the show over a controversial joke about model Katie Price's disabled

son.

The mental health charity Rethink said it had also complained to the regulator.