It recognised a world dominated by consumer advertising, of democratic government mutating into public relations.

This resulted in an effective ban on strong e-cigarettes and on consumer advertising — which will come into force next year.

City analysts forecast a tough time for media next year, with consumer advertising remaining under pressure.

In 1992 the office had a budget of $2.5 million, of which $1 million was directed to consumer advertising.

The move was designed in part to attract more consumer advertising.