Watchdog investigates radio 'rape' case

Australia's media watchdog has fast-tracked its investigation into the controversial radio rape scandal last month.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority yesterday confirmed that it would be investigating 2DayFM and licensee Austereo for allowing breakfast show hosts Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O to quiz a 14-year-old rape victim live on air.

ACMA will explore whether the show met "contemporary standards of decency", taking into account the young audience and the amount of complaints received after the programme went off air.

New South Wales Premier Nathan Rees later called for the pair to be sacked, telling The Daily Telegraph: "I think they well and truly overstepped the mark a few weeks ago." When asked if he thought the DJs should be allowed back on air, Rees added: "In short, no."

Sandilands was involved in a fresh scandal last week after apparently refusing to pay up after pledging $35,000 (£17,500) to the family of a handicapped boy.