Two "shock jock" DJs sparked a public outcry in August 2002

In a statement released by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), one of its members said the organisation was "not serious about enforcing our nation's laws".

Commissioner Michael Copps also said the FCC continued to "turn a deaf ear to the millions of Americans who are fed up with... patently offensive programming".

The FCC admitted failing to address "numerous outraged e-mails and phone calls" it received about two New York "shock jocks" 12 months ago.

The DJs, Gregg "Opie" Hughes and Anthony Cumia, challenged listeners to have sex in public places, awarding points for the most outrageous.

All too often our citizens' complaints are ignored Michael Copps FCC commissioner

But there was a public outcry after two listeners had sex a few feet away from worshippers in St Patrick's Cathedral, with a live commentary from one of the show's producers.

The DJs - whose show was on WNEW-FM and syndicated to 17 other stations - were fired one week later.

At the time, there were reports that the FCC could revoke WNEW-FM's licence.

But on Thursday, the FCC said: "One year later the FCC has failed to even address these complaints."

Mr Copps said: "When we allow complaints to languish for a year, the message is loud and clear that the FCC is not serious about enforcing our nation's laws.

"Congress expected action from the FCC, but all too often our citizens' complaints are ignored."

He said the FCC should take a "firm stand" against increasing offensiveness - but its current stance would only make things worse.