TNAG-1688-FCO40-2338-Hong-Kong-legislation-regarding-the-control-of-publications--1987 — Page 218

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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