Who classifies films as suitable or unsuitable for kids

A. The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) oversees the categories that films fall into.

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Q. What sort of thing does�it look for

A.� The BBFC says that in classifying films for cinema release, video or digitial media, they believe adults should be able to choose what they see, providing it remains within the law. They say work should be allowed to reach as wide an audience that is appropriate for the time and treatment.

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Q.� Can�it�reject movies

A. Films or vidoes�that are not acceptable will wherever possible be cut or they may have their relevent classification rejected. The grounds on which they can be refused are: graphic rape, sadistic violence or terrorisation; illegal and constructive drug use; material likely to incite racial violence; children in explicit or violent sex scenes; injury or humiliation; bestiality or necrophilia, or material likley to be considered by the courts.

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Q. What does U mean

A.� U stands for Universal, which means it is suitable for all ages. The BFFC says it is impossible to predict what might upset a particular child, but U films should be suitable for audiences aged four and upwards. Films aimed at children should be within a positive moral framework and should offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror. The guidlines includes very infrequent and mild bad language, occasional natural nudity, mild violence and very mild sexual behaviour.

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Q. What about PG

A.� PG stands for General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. Children of any age may view watch, but PG films should not disturb a child aged around eight or over, however, parents are advised to consider what might upset a sensitive child.

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Q. What other categories for children are there

A. 12 - suitable for a child aged 12 and over, the BFFC is strict that no one younger than 12 should see this classification. The strong use of bad language must be rare and must be within the context of the film. Sexual activity may be implied and demonstrating techniques such as hanging or suicide must not be shown in detail. A 15 classification means no one younger than 15 should view the film. Bad language can be used, there is no constraint upon nudity, but sexual activity must not be portrayed in detail.

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Q.� And for adults

A.� There is an 18 classification�that means no one younger than 18 should see the movie. The BFFC says it respects the rights of adults to choose their own entertainment within the law. It says it is, therefore, expected to intervene only in relation to video classifications, which are unsuitable for younger viewers.

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There is also a Restricted 18 category that is applied only in licensed sex shops. It is a special and legally restricting classification primarily for videos showing consenting sex between adults. Such videos may be supplied to adults only in a licensed sex shop, of which there are about 90 in the UK. Strict guidelines exist, however , including issues such as paedophilia, incest, and sexual activity�that has not been consented to.

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By Katharine MacColl