Page 1969 - Week 07 - Thursday, 31 May 1990
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over the distribution and display of advertising material associated with these publications; as an additional condition to sale, to specify that video outlets and the like shall be obliged to check orders against, say, a birth certificate, passport or a drivers licence; and creation of an offence of assisting a minor in obtaining a restricted publication.
Mr Speaker, these measures contained in the Publications Control (Amendment) Bill 1990 [No. 3] are designed to tighten up an industry that the Assembly has rejected banning. The Alliance Government is prepared to act now and it will continue to lobby the Commonwealth to consider more fully what is really a national issue. This Bill will ensure that a more responsible attitude is taken towards the sale and distribution of X-rated material, at least in the ACT.
The Alliance Government has, however, recognised the concerns expressed to it about the availability of this material. There is a need for concern if this material is visible to minors and uninterested adults. That is why the Government has responsibly prepared this Bill to deal with these issues.
This Bill represents a balance between the right of those who demand this material and those who would rather not be confronted by it. The Alliance Government is prepared to deal with this problem in a responsible manner. It will not just turn its back on this difficult social issue. The measures contained in this Bill, such as restricting the availability of X-rated videos to the industrial areas of Fyshwick, Hume and Mitchell, tightening controls over advertising material, requiring proof of age, and creating a further offence of assisting a minor to obtain a restricted publication, will lead to a more responsible and regulated industry.
The attempt to accommodate all concerned is further illustrated by the inclusion of a transitional provision in the Bill to allow video outlets not in Fyshwick, Hume and Mitchell to dispose of current stocks of X-rated videos on a wholesale basis. The sale or hire of X-rated videos to the public will be restricted to Fyshwick, Hume and Mitchell from 1 July 1990. Mr Speaker, I present the explanatory memorandum for the Bill.
Debate (on motion by Mr Moore) adjourned.
PERSONAL EXPLANATIONS
MR BERRY: Mr Speaker, I seek leave to make a personal explanation.
MR SPEAKER: Do you claim to have been misrepresented?
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