Disagreement over 9pm advertising watershed

August 30, 2007: The Portman Group is arguing against pressure group Alcohol Concern’s call for a 9pm watershed for alcohol television advertising.

Portman, which represents the interests of many drinks industry firms in matters relating to social responsibility, says tough rules on scheduling and the content of alcohol ads already stops companies from targeting children.

"The advertising rules, which were toughened two years ago, ban adverts from targeting or appealing to under-18s,” said David Poley, Portman Group chief executive. “Completely shielding this age group from any images of alcohol is not helping them grow up with sensible and balanced attitudes to drinking."

4 Comment on this story at our forum