The couple have just produced adverts for the Tokyo Beauty Centre beauty salons chain, the first time they have ever appeared in a commercial together anywhere in the world.

In one, they snuggle up together on a rug in front of a roaring fire, while another features them cuddling on a sofa.

The adverts seen only in Japan, where they are showing on giant outdoor screens in central Tokyo.

In one advert, a formally dressed Beckham and his pop star wife exchange a kiss before uttering the words: "Just beauty." Industry experts estimate that the short piece of film earned the pair £2 million - which would be the highest ever fee for a foreign celebrity.

However, the exact details of the deal are a closely guarded secret.

"The contract does not allow us to discuss details with the foreign media," said a spokesman for Hakuhodo, the advertising agency involved.

"We are very happy to have David and Victoria in the commercials, because they have such a cool image and they are loved by the people of Japan."

TBC also declined to comment, but local media have reported the company as saying it was satisfied it had got good value for money after the campaign provoked a Japanese media circus.