This isn't just any television ad, this is an M&S television ad... but is their latest commercial sexiest or just a bit of festive fun?


The Advertising Standards Authority is looking into eight complaints from viewers about their 'Christmas wouldn't be Christmas...' ad which features the straight talking (and unashamedly chauvinist) DCI Gene Hunt, the '80s police character from hit TV series Ashes to Ashes, played by actor Philip Glenister.

The offensive line is delivered by Glenister, who says: "That girl prancing around in her underwear."

The ad cuts to French underwear model Noemie Lenoir, who regularly features in M&S ads wearing a bra and knickers, who asks: "Moi?"

M&S are said to be surprised by the complaints, which accuse the ad of being demeaning to women.

The ASA is currently considering the complaints and must decide whether to launch an investigation by the end of next week.

The 50-second ad features M&S regulars Twiggy and Myleene Klass, as well as several other big name TV stars, including Stephen Fry who says he couldn't do without "a little mince".

In another segment, Jennifer Saunders says Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without "stuffing" and Joanna Lumley, her co-star in BBC comedy Absolutely Fabulous, adds: "...your face, sweetie."

A spokesman for Marks and Spencer said: "We're surprised by the ASA complaints regarding Philip Glenister's appearance in our TV ad. Our research shows that his on-screen character in Ashes to Ashes is extremely popular with our customers and his lines in the ad are in keeping with that role."

What do you think? Have the eight people who complained simply never watched Ashes to Ashes or do they have a point?