The Film Censorship Bill at Annex A is based on the existing Film Censorship Regulations. Apart from providing for a system of classification, the Bill also incorporates the principles underlying film censorship, thus removing the inconsistency between the main Ordinance and subsidiary regulations. Consequential amendments to the Places of Public Entertainment Ordinance would be required. The main provisions of the Bill are set out hereunder.
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Clause 2 is the interpretation clause. defines, inter alia, а 'film' to include cinematograph films, video tapes and trailers used primarily for advertising any forthcoming film.
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Clause 3 establishes the Film Censorship Authority and stipulates that the Governor may directions to the Authority.
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Clauses 4 and 5 provide for a panel of censors to be appointed by the Governor, and for the Film Censorship Authority to appoint such censors
from the panel as may from time to time be necessary for the purpose of film censorship.
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Clause 6 makes it an offence to exhibit any film not exempted from examination ΟΙ not approved for exhibition by the Film Censorship Authority.
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Clause 7 lays down how films are
are to be submitted by the distributor to the Film Censorship Authority for examination.
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Clause 8 enables the Authority to exempt certain films from censorship.
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Clause 9 concerns the principles of censorship. These principles would enable films to be censored on moral, social and political grounds. It states that a censor shall examine a film to determine whether the film is or is not likely to be harmful to the public good. The censor shall also examine any accompanying soundtrack of the film. He may consult any person ne considers necessary before reaching his decision in respect of the film. This provision allows for consultation with a public