§ 4. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Postmaster -General whether he will consult the Independent Television Authority with a view to the curtailment of advertising, particularly in children's viewing time, directed at children.
§ The Postmaster-General (Mr. Reginald Bevins)No, Sir. I consulted the Authority during the debates on the Television Act, 1963, on advertisements affecting children. With the assistance of its Advertising Advisory Committee, the I.T.A. has drawn up rules to ensure that advertisements seen by children will not be harmful. These rules, which were published in the Authority's Report and Accounts for 1962–63, are strictly enforced.
§ Mr. Biggs-DavisonExactly what is meant by "harmful"? Does "harmful" include advertisements which are intended to get small children to persuade their parents to buy things which their parents may not be able to afford? Is not that injurious to family harmony and happiness?
§ Mr. BevinsI think it might be if that were to occur. I have not seen any evidence of that. If my hon. Friend has any particular cases in mind, I shall be very glad to discuss them with the authorities.