Who are they ? The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC), originally British Board of Film Censors, is a non-governmental organisation, funded by the film industry and responsible for the national classification and censorship of films within the United Kingdom.

What do they do ? It has a legal requirement to classify videos, DVDs and some video games under the Video Recordings Act 2010.

What power do they have ? Legally, local authorities have the power to decide under what circumstances films are shown in cinemas, but they nearly always choose to follow the advice of the BBFC.

What impact do they have ? All films and video games rated by the BBFC obtain a certificate, along with "customer advice" detailing references to sex, violence and harsh language. If a certificate states that a film or video game is only suitable for someone over a certain age, then only those over that age may buy it.

The BBFC can also advise cuts for a less-restrictive rating. This generally occurs in borderline cases where distributors have requested a certificate and the BBFC has rated the work at a more-restrictive level.

Examples of where the BBFC have affected film production.You can certain films unless you are a certain age or accompanied by an adult. Eg you need proof of age like a passport to get in to 15 rated film or a 12A film you cant get in without an adult.