Michael christian dj australia

An Australian minister says an award given to one of the radio DJs behind a royal prank call linked to the death of a UK nurse is "in bad taste".

Michael Christian was given the "Next Top Jock" award by his employer.

Last year he and co-host Mel Greig made a prank call to the London hospital where the pregnant Duchess of Cambridge was being treated for morning sickness.

The nurse who answered the phone and believed the callers were the Queen and Prince Charles was later found dead.

Australian Communications Minister Stephen Conroy told local media he disagreed with the award.

''There were some very serious consequences of what was a prank,'' he said. ''And to be seen to be awarding people so soon after such an event I think is just in bad taste.''

Mel Greig remains off air in the wake of the incident, but Michael Christian returned to work in Febru