Meridian In Four Weddings Complaint

Following complaints from Channel 4, Meridian have been reprimanded by the Independent Television Committee over the rules on cross-promotions. Channel 4 complained to the ITC regarding Meridian’s refusal to screen promotions of Four Weddings and a Funeral. Meridian said the promotion was for a programme containing bad language and was planned to be screened at an inappropriate time when numbers of children might be watching. The ITC reminded Meridian of Channel 4’s right to decide which of its programmes are promoted on ITV and Channel 4 must be informed of any problems for screening.

LWT’s The Knock also received complaint’s over excessive violence being shown. The complaints were regarding a scene showing a man dragging a naked woman at knifepoint (May 19) and a similar scene on May 12 without any weapon. With reference to the ITC’s Family Viewing policy, it was judged that the May 12 extract was acceptable but the May 19 extract, although only two seconds long, was unacceptable for the time of the evening (9-10pm).

Bob’s Ad Fabs, broadcast on May 6, received complaints with reference to section 10.6 of the ITC Programme Code. The programme, presented by Bob Monkhouse, consisted of 47 television commercials showing final packshots and making brand references. The code states that brands should not be referred to by name or pictured in close-up: although breaching the code, the ITC believe the programme was worthwhile and humorous. The ITC also believe a rule should be made to remove basic constraints for programmes like these.

ITC: 0171 306 7743