Jo Brand's joke about throwing battery acid at politicians will not be probed further by Ofcom

Getty Images
Getty Images

Jo Brand's joke about throwing battery acid at politicians will not be pursued further by broadcasting watchdog Ofcom.

Referring to political figures who had been hit by milkshakes, the comedian said on Radio 4's Heresy show in June: "I'm thinking why bother with a milkshake when you could get some battery acid."

An Ofcom spokeswoman said: "Acid attacks are extremely serious crimes. We found that these comments had clear potential to offend listeners.

"But we also considered the audience's likely expectations of Jo Brand's style - and of this established show, which sets out to challenge accepted views in society through provocative comedy.

"We also took into account that Ms Brand immediately qualified her comments, making it clear they shouldn't be taken seriously or acted upon."