In light of the rapidly growing range of audio visual content on
offer via a range of media, the President of the BBFC, Sir Quentin
Thomas, has called on the Government to bring together commercial
and creative interests along with those operating the regulatory
regimes to consider how best to provide the public with the information
they need to choose which content they wish to consume and how to
protect children and vulnerable people from harm.
Writing in his introduction to the BBFC’s Annual Report Sir Quentin said:
“As the audio visual content on offer to the public grows
rapidly, with a marked diversity in the nature of the medium and in the
means of delivery or access, it is perhaps not surprising that some
observers of this dynamic but confusing scene conclude that there is
little future for regulation and the attempt to maintain it seems like
attempting to shut the stable door when the horse has bolted. At
the BBFC we do not share this view.”
The BBFC’s Director David Cooke said:
“We are putting a good deal of effort into researching, and
speaking to others about, the implications of the growth of new media
for our system of regulation. We do not argue for regulation
except where it is genuinely needed. But effective regulation has
clear benefits: the prevention of harm; enabling informed
choices; creating a safe environment within which to enjoy creative
content. We regularly see and deal with material, whether
so-called ‘extreme reality’, abusive pornography, or simply
content which is unsuitable for the age group to whom it is addressed,
where our intervention is clearly necessary. No-one should assume
that such material will be confined to established platforms such as
film and DVD. Whether in a regulatory or an advisory capacity, we
believe we have unique expertise and experience to offer.”
Sir Quentin said:
“There is no doubt that regulation must serve a relevant social
purpose, and not needlessly be an impediment between the customer and
the services available. Regulatory regimes must command and
sustain public confidence and be fit for purpose. There is good
reason for thinking that because of the nature of audio visual product
and its potential impact the public is likely to expect some oversight,
particularly with a view to the protection of children. We
believe that there is also a strong commercial interest in
demonstrating that product in this field meets accepted
standards. Nonetheless, the rapidly shifting nature of the media
scene, with new technological possibilities means that these issues
need to be kept under review. We welcome the enquiry by the
Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee into new media and the
creative industries and would welcome the establishment of a forum
perhaps under the auspices of the Department for Culture, Media and
Sport to advance consideration of these issues.”
The BBFC 2005 Annual Report includes the accounts for the year along
with information about the work of the Board during the year.
Copies of the Annual Report can be obtained from the BBFC, 3 Soho
Square, London W1D 3HD or can be downloaded from the BBFC main website,
www.bbfc.co.uk