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modification to film advertisements published through various
media, existing standards will be maintained by way of a special arrangement which ensures that the Commissioner for Television and Entertainment Licensing acts as the only authority for referrals
of film advertisements to be made to the Obscene Articles
Tribunal.
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One of the most debated topics in the bill is the three-tier classification system which wit gives rise to a category of films limited to audience over 18. Cinema operators charged with enforcement responsibilities are naturally concerned with possible practical difficulties. Whilst there is a defence in the bill for cinema operators should they be able to demonstrate that they have taken reasonable precautions prevent underage people from entering their premises, the group is sympathetic with the industry's concern. As a compromise, therefore, an agreement has been reached with the Administration that a set of guidelines listing out what constitutes reasonable precautions will be worked out in consultation with the industry
before the system is put into operation. I am sure that Members
of this Council will be kept informed of progress in this regard.
Sir, the bill has broken at least two records. It is
the first piece of legislation, as far as I am aware, which has been preceded by two white bills; and it is the first bill which necessitated a total of 37 meetings, including discussion on 12
occasions with the Administration and on six occasions with the
film industry, before the ad hoc group could reach full agreement. Although some people may well say that the group could have finished its work much earlier, I believe the time taken for the group to complete its task simply reflects the importance and
Cap complexity of the bill. In any event, the important point is
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whether we are fulfilling effectively our role as lawmakers to scrutinise and improve legislation. I am confident that the bill before us today represents a package which not only takes into account the interests of all parties, but is also acceptable to
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