§ Mr. Victor Yatesasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that a boy was recently found dead from hanging after watching a television programme; and if he will direct both the British Broadcasting Corporation and the Independent Television Authority to refrain from broadcasting programmes which include hanging or the preparation for hanging scenes in future.
§ Mr. Edward ShortThe content of their programmes is of course the responsibility of the authorities. Nevertheless, I was very concerned to read the report of this sad affair. I am informed that the codes of practice issued by the two authorities to govern the portrayal of violence on television both refer expressly to the risks inherent in the fact that children may copy what they see. The Chairman of the B.B.C. and the I.T.A.32W will, I am sure, draw special attention to this.
I am writing to my hon. Friend about this matter.