Misleading, harmful, offensive? What do you think?
19 October 2005
Leeds Park Plaza Hotel, where the ASA is holding its free Annual Consumer Conference on 23 November
The people of Yorkshire are being invited to have their say about some of the controversial and provocative issues that surround advertising today as the Advertising Standards Authority holds its Annual Consumer Conference at the Park Park Plaza Hotel, Leeds on Wednesday 23 November.
The Consumer Conference, which is free to attend, is an opportunity to find out how the ASA works to protect the public from harmful, misleading or offensive advertising. The ASA is hoping that attendees will bring a ready supply of Yorkshire conviction to the event and won’t shy away from giving their views.
Participating in workshops where they adopt the role of the decision making body the ASA Council, delegates will discuss a series of controversial ads that have provoked complaints and decide whether or not they agree with the decisions the Council made. The feedback the ASA receives is invaluable as it serves as a useful barometer for gauging public opinion on delicate issues such as taste and decency.
2005 has been, and continues to be, a year when advertising has hit the headlines. It has seen the most complained about ad of all time - for KFC - turn good manners or lack of them, into a national debating point. Other issues such as the depiction of religion, sex, alcohol, junk food and gambling in advertisements have also fired public concern. The ASA wants to hear what the public thinks about these topics. How should advertisers convey their messages in a socially responsible way? What makes an ad offensive? What type of ads are suitable for children to see? Anyone who is interested in the big debates surrounding advertising and is keen on speaking out is invited to come and participate.
The ASA hopes that people from across the local community, from teachers to religious leaders, parents to students, charities and community group representatives will come along and have their say.
Director General of the ASA, Christopher Graham said: “Just one complaint can trigger an investigation that may lead to an advertisement being withdrawn or changed. The ASA Annual Consumer Conference is a great opportunity for members of the public to come and let us know what they think about advertising standards. They will not only learn more about what the ASA does to stop misleading, harmful and offensive ads, but they will also get their voices heard and have their say on advertising issues.”
For more information or to register for this event please contact Debra Quantrill or Zoe Kalu on 020 7492 2125/2126 or e-mail events@asa.org.uk.
