HC Deb 20 June 1985 vol 81 cc183-4W
Mr. Parris

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) in what respect his proposals for the designation of persons to act as the authority responsible for making arrangements for the classification of video works under the Video Recordings Act 1984 differ from the arrangements anticipated at the time the Bill was in Standing Committee; and why the changes have been made;

(2) why he has altered the particulars of his proposals for the designation of persons to act as the authority responsible for making arrangements for the classification of video works under the Video Recordings Act 1984; and whether he will make a statement;

(3) why it was necessary to withdraw and relay his proposals for the designation of persons to act as the authority responsible for making arrangements for the classification of video works under the Video Recordings Act 1984.

Mr. Mellor

As indicated during the passage through Parliament of the Video Recordings Bill, my right hon. and learned Friend's intention was to designate the principal officers of the British Board of Film Censors (as it then was). Accordingly, his initial proposals provided for the designation of the Earl of Harewood, Lord Birkett, Miss Monica Sims and Mr. James Ferman (respectively President, Vice-Presidents and Director of the British Board of Film Classification). After laying these proposals, he learned from Mr. Ferman's colleagues that contrary to our earlier understanding, it had not been possible to secure the consent of Mr. Ferman (who was abroad during the relevant period). To enable the designation to take effect this summer — which means that proposals must lie before parliament for 40 days (as required by section 5 of the Video Recordings Act 1984) before the summer adjournment — my right hon. and learned Friend laid modified proposals on Friday 14 June providing for the designation of the Earl of Harewood, Lord Birkett and Miss Sims.