The Advertising Standards Authority banned anti-begging posters published by Nottingham City Council for reinforcing negative stereotypes about homeless people. The posters implied that money given to beggars would be spent on drugs, alcohol or fraud. Over 2,000 people signed a petition criticizing the posters for vilifying the homeless. The ASA ruled that the posters portrayed all beggars in a negative, disingenuous way. The council leader said they wanted a hard-hitting message but may appeal the decision.