CONFIDENTIAL
24.
result of such debate would be likely to
be a demand for limitations on the
Government's power to censor films and a consequential curtailment of the Government's existing "powers".
(j) Accordingly, if it is determined that it
is best to proceed by way of a legislative
statement of guidelines, the Government
should step carefully and permit wide
consultation to limit the potential for
controversy.
(k) As an intermediate option the Government
could consider proceeding to legislate for
the film classification scheme but
postponing for further consideration the other proposals now contained in the Bill. Equally, the Government could
proceed with the Bill in its present form
but reduce the Clause 9 criteria only to
sex and violence. Further grounds could be added at a later time, if necessary,
after full consideration and consultation
although it probably would be extremely difficult (for political reasons) to do
so.
The advice of LAPG is sought generally and, specifically, as to what should be the principles of censorship for publicly exhibited films and whether they should be determined by legislation, regulation or administratively.
Options
25.
(Note :
(a) To proceed with the Bill as presently drafted.
At present Clause 9 does not provide a specific power to ban films on political grounds).
OMAGENTA
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