The advert which has been run through Global Media is to promote Channel 4’s adult dating programme Naked Attraction, which sees contestants choose partners based on their naked bodies.

The campaign has been displayed across a wide range of London double decker buses, as well as transport throughout the UK from companies like First and Stagecoach.

The controversial ad made headlines when posted about by writer and columnist Tracy King on Twitter.

The ad in question sports the taglines “loves naked attraction”, “hates naked attraction”, and “loves being naked”. The statements feature arrows that point to passengers sitting on the top deck of the bus, leaving them open to jokes, pictures, and presumptions from members of the public.

Many users on social media pointed out the implications and dangers that could arise from someone sitting in a seat that suggests they “love being naked” especially if the passenger is a minor.

In her tweet, King notes “you can’t just label non-consenting passengers like that” while also asking Channel 4 whether they are aware of how many sexual assaults take place on public transport.

According to Statista, in 2018/19, 716 sexual offences took place on London buses alone.

The tweet, which has generated thousands of likes and comments called out companies like Channel 4, Global, and Transport for London (TfL) for approving the advertisement.

In a statement, a TfL spokesperson says: “We work tirelessly to ensure public transport is a safe environment for everyone, and any report of sexual assault or inappropriate behaviour is investigated and treated extremely seriously.

“We have reviewed the ad campaign and decided that it should not continue to run on our bus network. It will be removed as soon as practicable.”

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