A council could sign sponsorship or advertising deals with businesses selling weapons, sexual services, tobacco or payday loans under a policy signed-off by cabinet members.

The document – designed to protect Medway Council from reputational damage – says partnerships with such traders will “not normally be agreed”, but should be considered on a “case by case basis”.

Council papers read: “This policy aims to advise on what are, and are not, acceptable forms of advertising and sponsorship for the council.”

Portfolio holders will be consulted when opportunities arise with those “with a political purpose”, or involved in “promoting the sale of weapons, firearms and tobacco”.

Anyone involved “in business of a sexual nature”, payday loans or tattooing and body piercing would also usually be rejected for such deals but could still be accepted under the policy.

Council leader Cllr Alan Jarrett (Con) said: “In terms of the policy – fine, let’s have it as long as it doesn’t tie our hands which I don’t believe this one does.”

The document was drawn up after questions were asked about the authority’s partnership with Gillingham Football Club earlier, but will only be used to “guide and advise” rather than dictate.

Medway Council was named as the club's shirt sponsor for this season back in May in exchange for use of the council's park and recreation grounds.

Cllr Rupert Turpin (Con) said: “It’s better to have Medway Council on there and as a great bonus, we didn’t pay anything for it at all.”