Y 05 87 15:39 TIBCOOU) HK GOVT
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in law by introducing this legislative amendment in
isolation. The Administration had not taken steps earlier
to address the issue because the existing practice was
fully understood by the trade, generally accepted by the
public and had never been challenged.
17.
Retention of the power to censor on political
grounds is necessary in Hong Kong's unique circumstances.
Given Hong Kong's position as an international financial
and trading centre, there are strong arguments for a
prudent check on films which might offend overseas
governments and communities.
A sensitive approach is also
needed to the special circumstances of Hong Kong's
position following the Joint Declaration between Britain
and China. Although the majority of films censored on
political grounds have been those which might offend
China, some Mainland Chinese films as well as foreign
films which might offend other parties have also been
banned.
Administrative Services and
Information Services
Government Secretariat 4. May 1987
P.17.
11.