MUMBAI: British media regulator Ofcom has slapped a £25,000 fine on Benelux, owners of Playboy TV, for telecasting a R18 film just after midnight on 1 May, 2004. Ofcom has classified the most explicit of sexual content as R18.

Commenting on the incident, Ofcom said it was the first time R18 content had been shown on British television. R18 rated content is ruled as "not to be transmitted at any time" under the 1.4 of the programme code of Ofcom.

Playboy, in its apology, conceded that it broadcast the movie Sandy Babe Abroad which is only allowed to be sold in X-rated cinemas or sex shops. It acknowledged that the action breached Ofcom's Programme Code.

Playboy TV UK managing director Jeremy Yates has been quoted as saying, "We accept Ofcom's decision. It was an error that occurred when we were updating our broadcast facility and that placed a strain on us."

The Ofcom investigation was overseen by a board member Kip Meek.