Says Ian Barber, Director of Communications, Advertising Association: "It is true that airbrushing has risen up the agenda in recent months and, while there remains little evidence in the debate, the industry, through the Advertising Association, is always open to meeting those with concerns. For our part we continue to monitor the debate and will be working to review more recent developments. We would encourage any marketer with an interest in shaping the industry's response to get in touch."
Says Geoff Russell, Director of Media Affairs, IPA: "The IPA is always concerned about the social impact of advertising - particularly when it might have implications for the young. The debate surrounding airbrushing is therefore an important one. Having said this, it is vital that if any action is required in this area, it takes place on the basis of research-based evidence to ensure that it is practical, appropriate and effective. Meanwhile the ASA has the powers to take action against any advertising which it considers misleading and can and does act in this context."
Says the Advertising Standards Authority: “The use of airbrushing and other post-production techniques in all media is an accepted creative practice. It is our role as the advertising watchdog to remove any ad that goes too far and uses any technique in a way that is misleading or irresponsible. The ASA receives only a small handful of complaints about airbrushing in ads. Although this suggests it is not an issue of concern to the majority of consumers, we take the complaints seriously and can and will act where necessary to have problem ads withdrawn.”
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