Miss Bartlett’s Claims Dismissed By Censor (Press, 3 November 1984)

On 3 November 1984, Chief Film Censor Mr Arthur Everard defended his decisions on film classifications after criticism from the Society for the Promotion of Community Standards, led by Miss Patricia Bartlett. She had expressed concern over the passing of a record seven R20-rated films in August, suggesting this indicated a troubling trend in censorship standards. Everard countered this criticism by arguing that the perception of film-goers as less discerning and more prone to moral corruption than Bartlett suggested reflects her own misunderstanding rather than a failure of censorship. Everard noted that although he approved seven R20 films in one month, this was an anomaly and highlighted that he approved only one in February and none in the following months leading up to November, which he believed demonstrated that R20 films made up just a small fraction of total R-rated films. He further explained that the films submitted for classification come in a random order and do not fit neatly into predetermined categories each month. Responding to Bartlett's concerns regarding minors potentially accessing R20 films on videotapes, Everard pointed out that all films and videotapes could currently be viewed at home by minors, and his censorship authority pertains only to public screenings. He indicated that the discussion about whether to require registration and classification of videotapes for private use was ongoing at the ministerial level, suggesting that Bartlett's petition of over 21,000 signatures was premature. Everard clarified that the R20 classification, which often includes a warning, is the strictest level of approval that a film could receive after edits. He explained that this designation signals that the film is controversial and intended strictly for mature audiences, not suggesting any negative portrayals such as being "obscene" or "tasteless." Ultimately, Mr Everard emphasised that adult film-goers should take personal responsibility for the content they choose to watch, advocating for an informed and discerning audience rather than relying solely on censorship to dictate their viewing choices.

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