Billy Connolly went naked for Comic Relief

Commenting on the rise in complaints, he said: "The increase is partly a function of the fact that more people know we exist.

"But the public also seems increasingly willing to complain."

Objections about Room 101 were not included in the report's overall complaints data for fear of distorting the results over a single issue.

The second most complained about programme, with 86 people contacting the BSC, was BBC One's charity marathon Comic Relief, also in March.

Multiple taste and decency issues upset viewers. In particular they objected to comedian Billy Connolly's nude stunt in central London.

The also found irreverent comedian Ali G's interview with Victoria and David Beckham unfair.

Complaints about matters relating to sex or violence rose two per cent on last year - 22% and 13% respectively.

But Lord Dubs added: "Our most recent survey into public attitudes to broadcasting showed people were relatively more relaxed about the portrayal of violence or sex.

"But the use of swearing or offensive language was tolerated only if properly scheduled and preceded by clear information about the nature of the programme.

The same "surprise" element was highlighted as the reason most people complained about adverts.

Responsibility

The commission also found broadcasters increasingly ready to admit they had made a mistake - and try to avoid doing it again.

Broadcasters admitted responsibility for about 5% of the total complaints received by the commission last year.

Lord Dubs said: "There is more confidence in the system. What is there to be gained in denying there has not been a mistake made?"

The most complained about channel was ITV with 28% of the share, up 5% on last year.

Just 10% of standards complaints were upheld by the commission, but the figure was 21% for fairness.

The number of complaints upheld in part or in full rose from 36% to 47%.