Pistols probed in Ireland in the 1970s

Punk pioneers the Sex Pistols were investigated by Gardaí in the 1970s amid concerns their music breached obscenity laws.

Official papers made public for the first time reveal that the Gardaí considered prosecuting record stores in 1978 for selling the band's first album, 'Never Mind The B******, Here's The Sex Pistols'.

The record was referred to the censorship board, with the deputy assistant chief state solicitor confirming it possibly contravened the Indecent Advertisements Act.

But the case was not proceeded with as the likely punishment - a small fine - would not justify the manpower required.

The state papers on the incident include a quote from a Garda inspector: "The title on the sleeve... would indicate that the contents of the record is obscene."