Odeon, Cineworld and Vue announce blanket ban on independence debate ads
Major cinema chains Odeon, Cineworld and Vue have announced a blanket ban on ads both for and against the independence referendum in Scotland, following complaints from film fans.
A spokesperson for Vue said: "Following feedback from our customers, which has been duly noted, we have taken the decision not to show any further campaign adverts.
"Along with the other leading cinema exhibitors, we will not be continuing with any additional campaigns beyond 5 June."
Some cinemagoers reported three adverts for the no campaign, from Better Together and Vote No Borders in the adverts before films, such as XMen: Days of Future Past and Godzilla.
The Better Together ads were reportedly booed in some cinemas, a fact which a spokesperson for the campaign described as “depressing in the extreme” and “because Nationalists can't tolerate open and honest debate”.
"The fact that so many Nationalists complained about our positive cinema advert shows that they will do anything to close down debate in Scotland," he added.
The Better Together ads were expected to end in June, but it is believed that the ban may have a more serious effect on the Yes campaign, which was expected to run in the cinema until the referendum in September.
A spokesman for Yes Scotland said: "We understand there have been many complaints about the no campaign adverts. We are in touch with cinema chains about possible future screenings of yes ads, and will of course abide by their decision."