Poland fears over 'homosexual' 'Teletubbies'

Poland's children's watchdog has said she is concerned the Teletubbies promote homosexuality.

Ewa Sowinska was appointed by the country's current right-wing government, which has itself come under fire for apparent homophobia, to safeguard children's rights.

In a magazine on Monday she revealed her fears about the BBC production and said she would ask a pyschologist to look into whether it encouraged homosexuality.

Speaking specifically about Tinky Winky she commented: "I noticed he has a lady's purse, but I didn't realise he's a boy. At first I thought the purse would be a burden for this Teletubby. Later I learned that this may have a homosexual undertone."

Ludwig Dorn, the government's Parliamentary Speaker, said he had warned Sowinska against comments "that may turn her department into a laughing stock".