Sunday, October 15, 2006

Intestinal ailment ads turn stomachs

Beijing has banned TV advertisements for the treatment of anal and intestinal ailments on morning rush hour buses, wary of spoiling commuters' breakfasts.

The advertisements, which featured "experts" and "sufferers exaggerating and guaranteeing the benefits of the treatments," were in the public interest, the city broadcasting authority insisted, but had caused numerous complaints and led to a public backlash.

"The television advertisements on public transport during the breakfast period had lead to commuters' digestive discomfort," the Beijing News said.

"In the interests of those commuters who are in the habit of eating just before boarding, and to avoid affecting commuters' appetites, such commercials will not be aired between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m."

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