Digital TV survey – watershed becoming obsolete
The Guardian reports on a survey commissioned by digital TV service, Homechoice. 43% of the parents surveyed believed that they, rather than the watershed, should determine what their children watch.
The chairman of Homechoice:
Before digital television, we relied on and trusted the watershed, but now we have to look at other ways to help keep the entertainment experience relevant and appropriate for the audience.
Special child’s remote controls and PIN codes were two solutions cited.
No inanities from John Beyer as yet. But we will, as ever, keep you informed.
(Thanks to Andrew)
This survey shows that parents are still concerned over violent and sexual content in programmes.
But it shows they are much better at policing their kids viewing that the likes of John Beyer gives them credit for.
I see that Sky have already implimented an access code in the latest software for thier boxes. However, I still think that a 9pm watershed is a good idea since it defines when something inappropriate *might* be broadcast.
I expect in future all programs could be voluntarily rated by the producers and sifted out automatically by EPGs, but even then, there’s a time and place for adult entertainment: so long as it remains a personal choice and not at the whim of John Beyer and cronies.
Hell’s teeth, if a movie has an 18 rating, it’s hardly going to be Snow White or Bambi now is it! If I choose to watch (and often do) that’s my choice as an adult, but there’s no way I’m going to let my kids watch: sleep is a wonderful thing.