Agenda and minutes

To elect a Chair for the ensuing meeting.

Councillor Grainger was elected Chair for the ensuing meeting.

Councillors/Staff to give notice of any disclosable pecuniary interest, other registrable interest or any other interest and the nature of that interest relating to any item on the agenda in accordance with the adopted Code of Conduct.

None declared

To answer questions from members of the public – submitted in writing or by electronic mail no later than 5.00pm, 2 working days before the meeting.

None received

The Licencing and Compliance Officer introduced the item which was to consider and determine an application to classify a Film under the Licensing Act 2003.

The film in question was ‘The Last Climb: Eric Jones’

The title had not been classified by the BBFC and it was the responsibility of the licensing authority to do so.

The panel had viewed the film in its entirety.

The Licensing and Compliance Officer clarified to the panel the licensing objectives and debate ensued.

Councillor Gaston moved the motion to classify the film as 12A.

The motion was seconded by Councillor Smith

A vote followed, 3 voted in favour of the motion, 0 against and 0 abstentions.

The motion was carried

Decision

‘The Last Climb: Eric Jones’ is certified as Universal 12A

Reasons for the Decision

The Licensing Panel resolved that the following classification be given:

‘The Last Climb: Eric Jones’ – certificate 12A – suitable only for 12 years and over.  No one younger than 12 may see a 12A film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult.

In reaching its decision, the Licensing Committee viewed the film and considered the information set out in the report by the Licensing and Compliance Officer. The Committee had regard to the British Board of Film Classification Guidelines.

The Licensing Committee had regard to the four licensing objectives under the Licensing Act 2003 and the Council’s Licensing Policy. In particular, the Committee considered as its overriding objective the protection of children from harm.

In addition, the Committee considered the Secretary of State’s revised guidance under section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 specifically but not limited to paragraphs 2.22 (protection of children from harm), 10.59 to 10.60 (exhibition of films) and 14.62 (children and cinemas).

The Committee sought to balance the promotion of the licensing objectives while seeking to ensure the film reached the widest audience appropriate. The Committee found when considering the BBFC Guidance that the issue of dangerous behaviour which young children may be liable to copy was the most important factor to consider, therefore the rating of 12A was the most appropriate.