ROBAFE
M.
FILM CENSORSHIP
THE NEED FOR CENSORSHIP
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Hong Kong Government considers, and we agree, that they need some powers which can be used in extreme cases to control the
exhibition of films.
FILM
CEXISORSHIP
Film Censorship Bill provides that the censor will take number of matters into consideration in deciding whether a film is suitable for exhibition, including whether there is likelihood that the exhibition of the film would seriously damage good relations with
other territories.
Hong Kong Government considers that this provision is necessary
in circumstances of Hong Kong.
HONG KONG'S PREVIOUS ARRANGEMENTS WERE NOT LAWFUL
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Hong Kong Government acted to put the of their film censorship provisions (which had operated without legal challenge for 30 years) beyond legal doubt.
THE NEW LEGISLATION HAS BEEN RUSHED
In reviewing their legislation, Hong Kong Government have conducted extensive consultation in Hong Kong, in particular with Legislative Council Ad Hoc Group on Film Classification and Censorship, the District Boards, and the film industry.
Bill was published for information and comment in April 1987,
and extensive consultation I have referred to led to an amended bill being published in November 1987.
After allowing further period for comment, Hong Kong Government
will now table the amended bill for debate in the Legislative
Council.
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