Editor's Comment: Cameron's broadside merely a smokescreen

Politicians have learned from this. If the coalition is taking the flack for society's problems, it helps to pin the blame on someone else, or provide distractions.

In his latest attack on business and marketing (page 10), Prime Minister David Cameron is merely following his predecessors. It is just ironic that he's a former PR man.

So, when the public is having sleepless nights over the economy, the health service and their children's education, Cameron decides to have a pop at gambling ads.

Does this mean that gambling faces the same fate as tobacco? Brands beware: this is not the time to be defensive.

Engaging with regulators, the public, and, yes, with Westminster is the only way forward; but even this strategy is no magic wand.

The benefits of brands tying the knot

Marriage is more fashionable than ever. Isn't that right, Kate? Sadly, however, marriages that last a lifetime are far from being the norm. As it is in life, so it is in marketing (page 32).

Is it the fault of promiscuous brand owners or feckless agencies? Well, both sides have to work at it, but the results are worth it. Ask VW, the world's most awarded brand, soon to celebrate its 42nd anniversary with handsome spouse, DDB.

Noelle.McElhatton@haymarket.com

This article was first published on marketingmagazine.co.uk