Video Ratings (Press, 16 May 1987)
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Summary: Video Ratings (Press, 16 May 1987)
In a recent statement, Dennis Amiss, the executive secretary of the Video Retailers’ Federation, articulated that the intention of the Video Recordings Bill is to provide consumer guidance rather than to impose censorship. However, concerns have been raised about the bill's potential to exploit societal vulnerabilities by promoting access to explicit sexual material. The proposed R20 and RX ratings are seen as particularly alarming, as they could legitimise access to some of the most disturbing pornographic content available. The risks associated with at-home video consumption are significant, especially for children who might be exposed to graphic depictions of sexual acts including group sex, oral sex, and violent sexual behaviour. Critics argue that such exposure can shape children's perceptions and attitudes towards relationships and sex in detrimental ways. Currently, there are over 250 titles featuring explicit sexual content, with around 50,000 copies of these videos available to the public, many of which contain material that could be considered offensive. Patricia M. Bartlett, the National Secretary of the Society for Promotion of Community Standards, expressed strong opposition to the current proposal, advocating for independent oversight of content ratings instead of allowing the video industry to self-regulate. She emphasised the need for a dedicated five-person body to manage these ratings in order to effectively safeguard communities from potentially harmful media content. Bartlett’s concerns underline a broader apprehension regarding the impact of unregulated access to explicit materials on societal values, particularly regarding marriage and interpersonal relationships.
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