REMEMBER when it seemed that a blanket ban on the widespread advertising of cigarettes would never happen? Up against the tobacco giants that wielded so much power, it seemed as if the anti-smoking lobby didn't stand a chance.
25-04-2008
Remarkably, their campaign came to a successful conclusion – one which was reached such a long time ago now that the days when the Marlboro Man graced billboards and lithe models exuded sophistication by lighting up on television programmes are a dADVERTISEMENTistant memory.
These days, it is those who fear for the health of children with ever-expanding waistlines who are facing the seemingly impossible fight. This week their campaign will take a step forward when Nigel Griffiths, the Labour MP for South Edinburgh, addresses Westminster on the need to ban the marketing of unhealthy food during family TV shows.
His view – to be outlined in the second reading of his Food Products (Marketing to Children) Bill on Friday – is backed by more than 40 groups, including the British Medical Association, the National Union of Teachers and consumer magazine Which?
Since the start of this year, broadcast watchdog Ofcom announced new regulations banning junk food marketing from the commercial breaks of TV programmes aimed at children under the age of 16.
But there is deep disquiet about the regulations as they stand, because campaigners say they leave far too many avenues open for exploitation.
Research by Which? has shown that 12 of the 20 most popular programmes watched by children are exempt from the legislation because they are classed as family shows. More than 400,000 children watch these early evening shows every week, and it is this loophole advertisers are making the most of.
With this in mind, Nigel Griffiths and his supporters are looking for a blanket ban on this type of advertising before the watershed time of 9pm.
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http://news.scotsman.com/opinion/The-battle-to-switch-off.4001806.jpSource: -
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