ENG-2016 — Page 354

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Media and Communications

In response to the growth in e-commerce, Hongkong Post continues to introduce new delivery solutions. During the year, it launched more varied international delivery options, iPostal Stations that allowed for self-service mail collection, and the Hong Kong Trusted Product programme on the ShopThru Post online platform, which supported wider participation of e-commerce merchants.

New Postage Structure

From 1 January 2016, postage for local and international mail up to 2kg was determined by weight and mail format, namely small letters, large letters and packets, in line with global postal developments.

Retail Network

Hongkong Post operated a network of 125 post offices during the year. It introduced e-signatures for mail collection at post office counters.

Stamps and Philately

Thirteen issues of special and commemorative stamps on a diversity of themes were released.

International Cooperation

Hongkong Post is an active member of the international postal community. Through participation in bilateral and multilateral activities, it keeps abreast of industry developments and forges close cooperation with postal counterparts. From September to October, Hongkong Post attended the 26th Universal Postal Union Congress held in Istanbul, Turkey, as part of the delegation of the People's Republic of China.

Film Classification

Hong Kong adopts a three-tier film classification system: Category I, which is suitable for all ages; Category II, subdivided into Category IIA, not suitable for children, and Category IIB, not suitable for young persons and children; and Category III, only for persons who have attained the age of 18. The aim is to allow adults wide access to films while protecting young persons under 18 from exposure to potentially harmful materials. Category IIA and IIB classifications are advisory, while the age restriction for Category III films is mandatory.

In 2016, 2,196 films were submitted for classification, compared with 2,065 in 2015. Of these, 714 were classified as Category 1, 730 as Category IIA, 590 as Category IIB and 162 as Category III. Film trailers, instructional films and cultural films intended for public exhibition can be exempted from classification. During the year, 11,131 such films were exempted from classification.

Film classification standards are kept in line with society's expectations through regular public opinion surveys and consultation with a statutory panel of advisers, comprising about 300 members drawn from different levels of society.

The Board of Review (Film Censorship) is empowered under the Film Censorship Ordinance to review the film censors' decisions on film classifications upon request. The board comprises

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