Is it permissible to mention that the presenter of a programme has a book published which is “available in all good bookshops”?
A. It depends on the connection between the programme and the book, and what role the broadcaster has had in its production. Programme-related material (books, magazines, DVD’s, web sites etc.) can be promoted on air if it is “directly derived from a specific programme” and the broadcaster has “responsibility” for the programme-related material. However, if the book in question did not fall within the definition of programme- related material e.g. the book was an autobiography of the presenter, published independently of the broadcaster, it could not be promoted within or around the programme. This can be a tricky area and advice should be sought from the programme lawyer.
