To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what measures are in place restricting companies from marketing products to children under 16 years of age; and if she will make a statement on the regulations in place for responsible advertising. [111149]

Non-broadcast advertising in the UK is controlled primarily by self-regulation under which the Advertising Standards Authority is responsible for ensuring compliance with the British Code of Advertising, Sales Promotion and Direct Marketing. The Code contains specific rules on advertising to children.For advertisements appearing on the television, the Independent Television Commission oversees compliance with its own Code of Advertising Standards and Practice. With regard to advertisements on the radio, the Radio Authority licences and regulates the independent radio industry, including radio advertising, in accordance with the statutory requirements of the Broadcasting Act 1990 and the Broadcasting Act 1996.