TRADING standards officers have warned businesses about the financial dangers of junk mail sent by fax.

Faxes have been sent out containing a survey on whether ITV should axe News at Ten. It asks the recipient to tick yes or no on the form and fax it back, at a cost of up to £3, to 20th Century Fax Ltd, London.

County Coun Don Yates, chairman of the Lancashire land and buildings public protection sub-committee, said: "This is another example of a premium rate telephone service, and is not subject to regulation at present. If anyone wishes to express their views to ITV they can do so for the price of a stamp. We would advise people receiving faxes, especially businesses, to think twice before responding."

Callers to the 0171 680 0020 number on the fax are connected to an answerphone.

A new law, due to come into force in October, will mean that such faxes will not be allowed unless the subscriber consents.

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