The Film and Publication Board was established to regulate the distribution of films, interactive computer games and certain publications through a system of classification and rating. The purpose of classification is to provide the public with advice about the content of films so as to enable them make informed viewing choices. More importantly, classification and rating decisions are aimed at the protection of children from exposure to materials which may be disturbing, harmful or age-inappropriate.
Films, interactive computer games and certain publications are classified and rated by a panel of examiners on the basis of a set of guidelines established by the Board. These guidelines are used to determine what is disturbing, harmful or age-inappropriate for children at different ages and levels of development. It is important that the guidelines reflect the tolerance levels of a diverse cultural South African society with respect to what children should be protected from in films, interactive computer games and certain publications.
The Board therefore invites representations from the public on the draft classification guidelines which have been published in the Government Gazette Vol 527, 6 May 2009, No. 32197, copies of which may be obtained from the Board’ offices at 87 Central Street, Houghton or may be requested by e-mail from modipanem@fpb.gov.za or by fax to 011 483 1084 or by telephone at 011 483 0971. The draft guidelines may also be accessed at http://www.fpb.gov.za.
Representations/comments should be forward to Yewande Langa by fax (011 483 1084), e-mail (comments@fpb.gov.za) or mailed to Private Bag X2205, Houghton 2041 by no later than 18 June 2009.
Related information: http://www.info.gov.za/view/DownloadFileAction?id=99894
Issued by: Film and Publication Board
25 May 2009
