Let grieving relatives opt-out of Mother's Day marketing, says MP in bid to ease misery

Bereaved families grieving for their mums should be able to opt out of advertising in the run-up to Mothering Sunday, an MP will say tonight.

Matt Warman will issue a plea for firms to spare heartbroken relatives extra misery as such occasions loom.

The Conservative backbencher will speak about losing his parents 10 years ago, and call for a voluntary code for advertisers which allows people to opt out of related marketing.

Matt Warman, pictured on election night 2017, will speak about his own loss in Parliament (Anthony Devlin)

Email inboxes are often flooded with deals for chocolates, flowers or spa days as Mothering Sunday, which takes place this weekend, nears.

A crackdown would help prevent added upset as families mourn their loved ones and emotions run high, the MP will say.

Mr Warman, 37, will tell a Commons adjournment debate: “I know from personal experience the dread that seemingly innocent marketing for Mother’s Day, or indeed Father’s Day, can bring for so many who have lost a loved one.

“While we, of course, want to recognise our appreciation for mothers, small changes by advertisers to allow people to opt out of related communications will make a huge difference for those who find this day deeply painful.

“Some have already done this voluntarily, and that is hugely welcome.”