The announcement came after a newspaper investigation published by The Times showed that taxpayers-funded ads were shown alongside extremist content.

The British government is seeking assurance from YouTube's owner Google that its ads should be displayed in the right way.

"We have placed a temporary restriction on our YouTube advertising pending reassurances from Google that government messages can be delivered in a safe and appropriate way," said the Cabinet Office.

The government regards digital platforms including YouTube as a cost-effective way of reaching mass audience and engaging people in campaigns such as military recruitment, and the government's ads require high standards.