Sound of silence is 'no'

LONDON - A $1 million Government campaign is being launched to tell men they must get consent before having sex to avoid being sent to prison.

Using provocative imagery and language, the ads warn that consent is active, not passive, and that unless women say "yes" to sex, men must assume the answer is "no".

The adverts will be launched in men's magazines, on the radio and on posters in men's toilets in bars and clubs.

Home Office Minister Fiona Mactaggart said she hoped that challenging men's attitudes would also give women confidence that the law was on their side.

"For a long time, work to raise awareness of sexual violence has focused on the need for women to take responsibility for their safety," Mactaggart said.

The campaign comes as the Government considers lowering sentencing for sexual violence, and the conviction rate for rape cases falls.

- REUTERS