13/12/2002

Still no definite resolution of parliamentary debates about violence in films and television pornography, which have now been postponed until January.
The Commission of Cultural Affairs of the House of Representatives immediately abandoned the idea of a double previewing of films by the Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Welfare, claiming that the only ministry qualified for such a task is that of Culture.
However, the Minister of Culture and Communication, Jean-Jacques Aillagon, announced his intention to modify the structure and functioning of the “Censorship Ratings Commission”. His objective is to reinforce the presence of experts in adolescence (doctors, teachers, specialists in adolescence and the impact of images on young people) and to modify the voting regulations concerning a prohibition to minors under 18 years of age (a simple majority vote instead of a two-thirds majority). Currently, the Commission is part of the National Center of Cinematography (CNC) and offers only indications concerning the suitability of films: PG (general public), PG12, 16, or 18 (not suitable for under 12, 16, or18), and X, or a total prohibition. These indications are then forwarded to the Ministry of Culture where a final decision is made on the rating. Now it will be CNC director David Kessler who will be responsible for carrying out the changes requested by the minister.

(Translated from French)