Product prominence
We need to be able to reflect the real world and this will involve referring to commercial products, organisations and services in our output.
We must avoid any undue prominence or giving the impression that we are promoting or endorsing products, organisations or services. To achieve this we must:
- ensure that references to trade names, brand names and slogans are clearly editorially justified.
- not linger on brand names or logos and use verbal references sparingly unless there are very strong journalistic reasons for repeated references to a brand.
- not accept free or reduced cost products or services in return for on air or online credits, hotlinks or off air marketing.
- take particular care to minimise product references in output designed to appeal to children.
- only use material from advertising campaigns or promotions when clearly editorially justified. Generally, it will only be acceptable to use a short extract. There may also be copyright considerations.