VIDEO GAMES CONTAINING SEX OR EXCESSIVE VIOLENCE (Penalties for false declarations)

Dr Kanwaljit Soin asked the Minister for Information and the Arts if he will consider amending legislation to increase the penalties for false declarations by video importers in regard to excessive sex and violence in video games so that the punishment reflects an adequate deterrent.

BG George Yong-Boon Yeo: Importers of video games have to declare to the Board of Film Censors (BFC) that their games do not contain sex or excessive violence. If they are not sure, they should send them for checking. BFC conducts random checks to ensure compliance.

Those found making false declarations are liable for prosecution. On conviction they face a maximum fine of $1,000 or 6 months' jail. If the video games contain obscene materials, the offender would also be liable for prosecution under the Films Act. The maximum penalty is a fine of $40,000 or 2 years' jail, or both.

The system has so far been operating smoothly. The present penalties for false declarations are adequate.