The BBC considers the “r” Word offensive enough to fine an American comedian for the use of it on their cable network.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/media/tv-radio/bbc-show-breached-code-over-retarded-comment-1057590.html

http://welcometoillinois.wordpress.com/2008/12/09/bbc-breached-code-over-use-of-the-r-word/

Here is the comedian’s comment:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8hlj_UFi-g

Here is the comedian’s MySpace page if you would like to leave HIM a comment;
http://www.myspace.com/dougstanhope