As in other areas concerning public health, the debate surrounding alcohol advertising and its impact on drinking behaviour remains high profile and hotly contested. The AA operates an informal network for organisations wanting to stay close to the debate.
Advertising and marketing to children is a sensitive area - as recognised by the special measures which already exist in the advertising codes. Following the Bailey Review in 2011, the AA set up a Children's Panel which has led the industry response to Bailey's recommendations.
Whilst recognised by government as a relatively small factor within the UK's obesity problem, advertising and marketing of food - particularly food high in fat, salt or sugar - remains a hot topic. Through the Food Advertising Unit the AA seeks to ensure that the debate remains balanced and evidence-led.
The AA has been working closely with stakeholders and government to meet the reqirements of the amended EU e-Privacy Directive. We recently established a Working Group that will produce a recommendation to CAP on new rules to cover online behavioural advertising.
The use of idealised or unrealistic body-imagery in the media has been the subject of increasing public and political concern. The AA has been active on this topic, with action spanning research, policy debates and industry engagement.