Online Casino ad Banned
7th January, 2009
Ladbrokes is one of the biggest gambling brands in the UK with several hundred bookie stores and several online websites providing poker, casino, betting and bingo products. Their online sites have grown in popularity and offer those who want to experience the thrills of online gambling a first class service.
However, a recent TV advertisement promoting their online casino has be banned by the ASA. The ad received a complaint by one member of the public who claimed it portrayed gambling "in the context of toughness".
The advert shows a character taking part in dangerous, thrill seeking and risky events such as diving with sharks dressed as a seal or with raw meat attached to his wet suit. Humorous and compliant with the ASA guidelines, Ladbrokes deemed the ad's fully appropriate and socially responsible.
Managing director of Ladbrokes Remote Betting and Gaming, John O’Reilly said in a statement, “Ladbrokes fully supports the code of practice relating to gambling advertising but this ruling is an example of political correctness going too far.
"We believe the ads are compliant as they are humorous and show people in fantastical situations to which no one would aspire. Consumers know that you cannot jump from a plane using a 30g pack of crisps as a parachute!”
In spite of this the ASA has ruled the adverts inappropriate and as a result they will be banned.
By Jamie
