Lithuanian lawmakers ban sex and violence on TV

In a move to protect minors, Lithuanian lawmakers have banned the television broadcast of sex, violence or profanity except during late night hours, but the president's office said it will scrutinize the measure.

"In any case we must analyze whether the law's provisions help achieve their stated aim," said Violeta Gaizauskaite, spokeswoman to President Valdas Adamkus. She declined to make any substantive comments until after the president's advisers receive the text of the law.

The law passed by the Parliament on June 25 bans the broadcast, except from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m., of physical and psychological violence, sex, committing of a crime or use of profane words or gestures.

Also included under the ban are the showing of severe wounds, corpses, anything arousing sexual desire or causing fear or horror, and the idealization of criminals.

The legislation also bans the direct distribution of such materials to children.

Violation of the law could carry criminal penalties and fines, which were not specified.