Poland: TV refrains from beer adverts during Pope’s visit

Beer adverts will reportedly be banned from Polish television this week when the Pope visits, the Warsaw Business Journal informed May 22.

Polish viewers may find a rather more refrained variety of programmes and adverts served up during the visit of Pope Benedict – which begins May 25.

Broadcasters have apparently banned the promotion of 'inappropriate products' as well as any ads which rely on sexual innuendo.

The three state-run TV channels have asked to vet any material due to be shown during the tour.

“There is always the risk that the faithful may feel hurt if programming devoted to the Pope's visit is interrupted by frivolous ads,” said Zbigniew Badziak, head of advertising at the state network.

Viewers will not see commercials for beer or underwear, nor are they likely to see TV spots advertising bras, sanitary towels or contraception. Admirers of young, beautiful bodies will also be disappointed, as there will probably be no nudity shown during the Pope's visit.

TVP claims that the self-censorship was not motivated by pressure from politicians or the Church, but out of "respect for the sublime character of the religious event." A similar policy was undertaken during the pilgrimages of the late Pope John Paul II. Private broadcasters, who rely on commercials, are also considering limiting content that might be considered improper.

Bar owners will also have plenty of free time on their hands to watch the Pope celebrate mass, as the government has decided that no alcohol will be sold or served in cities on the day the Pope pays a visit. The Minister of Education, Roman Giertych, won a free day on May 26 for students, so they can take part in or watch the broadcast of the Pope's mass, which will take place at Warsaw's Plac Piłsudskiego. Those working in ministries, state offices and administration can also count on a day off and another long weekend.

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