IAB Interactive Advertising Bureau UK : showcases the Gold Standard in Parliament

That was the advice from Nigel Huddleston MP yesterday as the IAB hosted an intimate breakfast for Parliamentarians and Board members to talk about how the Gold Standard is helping to create a sustainable future for digital advertising.

While he waits for the next election to be called*, our CEO, Jon Mew gave a speech reminding MPs and Peers of the massive contribution that digital advertising makes to the economy and - more importantly - to the ad-funded internet that powers all our lives and enables us to access fantastic content and media wherever we are.

Chaired by our host Ed Vaizey MP, ex-Digital and Culture Minister and long-time supporter of the industry, our guests took part a lively discussion about how the IAB and its members can continue to effectively self-regulate - as demonstrated through the initiatives that are part of the Gold Standard - to tackle issues such as brand safety and to improve the online ad experience for everyone. Members also stressed the importance of advertising in supporting journalism and a diverse and plural media in the UK.

The clear message from all the Parliamentarians present was that there is a real and genuine threat of regulation - but it's not the preferred option. They recognise that industry can come up with better solutions, and more quickly, than legislators can. We need to take the opportunity to show that we can be responsible, and keep people and brands safe online. We all need to work together to do that.

To play your part and join the 50 IAB members who have already registered for the IAB Gold Standard, visit our dedicated page.

*not really!