China's central government broadcasting regulator criticized Guizhou Radio Station (GRS) for broadcasting "obscene" sex programs already banned earlier by the agency, and ordered immediate halt of such illegal programs and punishment of persons responsible.

The State Administration of Radio, Film and Television (SARFT) issued a circular on its website Wednesday to blame GRS, as well as the Guizhou Provincial Administration of Radio, Film and Television, for ignoring earlier warnings or failure in supervision.

The GRS programs "have willfully played on sex life, sex experience and details of sex organ, and excessively exaggerated functions of sex enhancement drugs," the decree said.

On Sept. 13, 2007, SARFT banned 13 local radio stations from airing sexually suggestive programs in five central and southern provinces of Hubei, Hunan, Guangdong, Guizhou and Hainan.

On Nov. 12, however, the economic channel of GRS changed the name of program and resumed its broadcasting of the same contents.

SARFT ordered the station to stop airing the content and discipline staff involved.

It also criticized the Guizhou Provincial Administration of Radio, Film and Television for inadequate supervision of local broadcasting stations.

The administration issued circulars in July and September 2007, banning radio and TV commercials and programs involving drugs, sex-related health supplements, drugs for sexually transmitted diseases, sex toys and "vulgar" ads for breast enhancement and female underwear.

SARFT ordered local broadcasting administrations to follow the rules and strictly supervise local stations, and it warned that anyone who violates the regulations shall face punishment.

SARFT also opened an hotline 010-86095315 to solicit public supervision. The public may also log on its website www.chinasarft.gov.cn to report on misconduct of radio and television stations, the circular said.

(Xinhua News Agency February 21, 2008)