MEN Media outlaws personal services ads
The publisher of the Manchester Evening News, MEN Media, has stopped running personal service ads from today, amid concerns that some of the businesses could be involved in criminal activity.
MEN Media has taken the decision as concern mounts that it could be seen as profiting from the proceeds of crime, should any of the premises and services advertised – which include health clubs, escort and personal services – be proven to be used for criminal purposes.
Managing director, Mark Rix, said: "We have been in contact with the police, trade bodies and a number of readers about their concerns over the nature and changes within the personal services advertisement section.
"Following on from these discussions, the editor and I decided that it would be in the best interests of our readers if we were to decline such advertising in the future.
"All of our customers in these categories have been notified about the changes which affect the Manchester Evening News and all associated titles."
MEN Media publishes over 20 daily and weekly paid-for and free newspapers.