HC Deb 12 November 1968 vol 773 cc198-9
24. Mr. Alison

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what further measures he is considering to extend the control of advertising at business premises.

Mr. Greenwood

I am considering whether control should be extended to certain advertisements inside buildings but visible from outside, and whether the conditions under which advertisements may be displayed with deemed consent should be changed.

Mr. Alison

May I take it that the right hon. Gentleman is not considering the exclusion of advertising from garage forecourts in future? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the view expressed by Lord Robens, the President of the Advertising Association, that there is no reasonable assumption that a reduction in advertising will lead to a reduction in retail prices?

Mr. Greenwood

I have not reached a conclusion on the question of garage forecourts which are not part of business premises, but I am looking carefully at those situations in which what is otherwise a beautiful street or district can be spoiled by what I regard as vulgar advertisements inside some of the shop windows.

Mr. Graham Page

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that the public dislike advertisements inside premises? Why is he seeking more control? Will he pay attention to the extensive public opinion poll recently which showed that the public like outdoor advertising?

Mr. Greenwood

The Question does not refer to outdoor advertising, but I hope that the public dislike any vulgar advertising, as I am sure the hon. Gentleman does.