• By law almost all videos have to be classified by the Britsh Board of Film Classification (BBFC) before going on sale in the UK
• It is a serious offence to supply a video recording which should have been classified but hasn't
• The underage sale of videos encompasses not just videos, but also digital media including DVD's and computer games

Legislation

• Video Recordings Act 1984

Age Restriction

A video recording must not be sold to any person below the age specified by the BBFC classification :-

	Universal - Videos classified Uc are particularly suitable for pre-school children.
	Universal - Suitable for children.
	Parental Guidance. General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for some children.
	No-one younger than 12 may see a ‘12A’ film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult.
	No-one younger than 12 may rent or buy a ‘12’ rated video.
	No-one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video.
	No-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated video.
	To be supplied only in licensed sex shops to adults of not less than 18 years.

Offences

The above legislation makes it illegal:

• To supply any video recording (video, DVD, computer game, etc.) to any person who has not attained the age specified on the label.

Maximum Penalties

• £5,000 Fine
• Up to 6 months imprisonment

Useful Links
[Note: These links will open in a new window]


British Board of Film Classification (BBFC)


Entertainment and Leisure Software Publisher's Association (ELSPA)
Computer & Video Games Ratings Explained (leaflet)


Pan European Game Information


Video Standards Council (VSC)

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