2. What is the BBFC?
The ‘BBFC’ is the British Board of Film Classification, set
up 1912.
They rate and give certificates to theatrically released
films, videos and video games.
The BBFC is a non-profit organisation.
In order to preserve its independence, the BBFC has never
received subsidies from either the film industry or the
government.
Its income is provided solely from the fees it charges for its
services, calculated by measuring the running time of films
or DVDs submitted for classification
3. Local Authorities
Local Authorities remain legally responsible for what
is shown in cinemas under the Licensing Act 2003
and can still overrule the decisions of the BBFC. This
does not happen very often.
Examples where it has happened include the Spider-
man film.
The BBFC rated it a ‘12’ but Local Authority overruled
the decision and changed it to a ‘PG.’
Westminster Council gave ‘18’ certificates to The
Texas Chain Saw Massacre and The Story Of O
before the films were submitted to the BBFC for
classification.
Both were subsequently classified ‘18’ uncut.
4. Relaxation
There has been considerable relaxation since
1999 onwards.
The relaxation of guidelines has also made
hardcore pornography widely available to adult
audiences through the R18 rating.
Films with this rating are only legally available
from licensed sex shops, of which there are about
300 in the UK.
They may also be seen in specially licensed
cinemas.
5. Sir Quentin Thomas
Quentin Thomas (born 1944) is a former British
civil servant.
He is currently president of the British Board of
Film Classification and has been since the 1st of
August, 2002.
