Herald Sun, Thursday, December 2, 2004

A Victorian Liberal MP who wrote a book of poems about brothels and table-top dancing is pushing for the legalisation of X-rated movies in Victoria.

It is now illegal under Victorian law for any business to sell X-rated films. But the Opposition small business spokesman Bruce Atkinson wants this changed for adult shops.

Backed by the sex industry group the Eros Association, Mr Atkinson tabled a petition in Parliament on Wednesday to change the law. The petition contained 5000 signatures collected at sexpo.

Supporters of the change want adult shops to legally sell X-rated films, claiming the blanket ban has led to films being sold at service stations, video stores and supermarkets.

"What is being sought is regulation, not liberalisation," Mr Atkinson said.

"These materials are being sold everywhere, and on the law as it stands, the Government is unable to get a conviction."

But family groups and opponents of pornography say the law should be enforced as it is.

"We already have a pretty liberal classification board, so if something is X-rated there's going to be a damn good reason," said Bruno D'Elia, the national secretary of the Australian Family Association.

"selling these films in an adult shop doesn't mean youngsters won't get them."

Eros founder Fiona Patten said: "Most Australians believe if adults want to watch Debbie Does Dallas, they should be able to."

Mr Atkinson said he was willing to introduce a private member's Bill to pressure the Government to change the law.