Iran missile ‘threat’ ads come under fire from ASA

The American Jewish Committee has come under fire from the UK advertising watchdog, after it ran a press campaign in the Financial Times last week on the “threat” from Iran’s missiles.

The ad shows a world map, highlighting Iran, with text at the bottom that says: “Suppose Iran one day gives nuclear devices to terrorists. Could anyone anywhere feel safe?”

According to the Advertising Standards Authority, the ad is being investigated on three counts: whether it is offensive to Iranians; whether it appeals to fear; and whether it is irresponsible. The ad has triggered 16 complaints so far.

â¢British Gas meanwhile has been forced to ditch its TV campaign featuring an animated gas flame, which tells the story of customers who are happy to stay with British Gas for their energy supply. Clemmow Hornby Inge has created the campaign. Rival Scottish Power and four customers complained that the campaign is misleading, as it implies that there is no material difference in prices between energy suppliers, and that customers are unlikely to save money by shopping around to compare prices.