Broadcast insiders deny reports of tighter censoring

Chinese broadcast industry insiders have denied that a recently issued regulation on video clips available online will affect imported Western TV shows, as claimed by overseas media.

A source with Sohu.com said on Wednesday that foreign journalists had misinterpreted the regulation set by the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television (SAPPRFT) to ensure online video providers verify netizens' identities before they upload video and audio content.

"It has nothing to do with imported TV series, as it is mainly aimed at user-generated content, such as online dramas or short films," the source said, on condition of anonymity.

He also ruled out the possibility that hit series like "The Walking Dead" and "Masters of Sex" will be banned.

"Although American TV series are strictly scrutinized in China, most of those currently available to the public have already been approved," according to the source.

The assurance may ease the fears of followers of such U.S. shows in China, where they are often downloaded through online video outlets such as Sohu.com or Youku.com.

The SAPPRFT's regulation, issued in a statement last Wednesday, reiterated an existing rule.

However, it was interpreted by some as a move to put greater scrutiny on American and British TV series.

The Hollywood Reporter said last Thursday that "China's top industry watchdog has introduced a policy of 'censor first, broadcast later'," which may dampen the prospects of American content.

On hearing the foreign reports, thousands of Chinese fans protested online at a perceived blow against freedom of choice.

However, Yin Hong, a film and television professor from Tsinghua University, said he had heard of no such move to tighten regulation on imported series.

"Imported TV series broadcast online are supervised under a looser policy than those shown on television, as most online foreign drama fans are young people who have received a higher education," said Yin.