09/03/2007

No charges over Big Brother racism row

No criminal charges will be brought in connection with the 'Celebrity Big Brother' racism row, Hertfordshire Police have confirmed.

The Crown Prosecution Service ruled that what had occurred on the show was "clearly offensive", but "not criminal".

Hertfordshire Police launched an investigation following a series of rows between Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty and three other housemates - former 'Big Brother' contestant Jade Goody, ex-S Club 7 singer Jo O'Meara and model Danielle Lloyd.

It was alleged that Shetty, who went on to win the show, was the victim of racist bullying and the row sparked a diplomatic incident.

A statement by Hertfordshire Police said: "Following consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service, it was felt that it would not be in the public interest to effect arrests or to pursue footage through the courts."

On Thursday, Carphone Warehouse announced that it would be dropping its £3 million sponsorship of 'Big Brother'.

(KMcA)



(KMcA/SP)

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