In order to preserve its independence, the BBFC has never received subsidies from either the film industry or government. Its income is derived solely from the fees it charges for its services, calculated by measuring the running time of films or video works submitted for certification. The tariff must be approved by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

The Board is a not for profit organisation, and its fees are adjusted only as required to cover its costs. Its financial affairs are administered by The Council of Management, made up of people from the manufacturing and servicing sections of the film industry. Producers, distributors and exhibitors, it was thought, would be tempted to influence decisions, while manufacturers of equipment only care that the industry continues to thrive.

Fees vary according to the length and type of work, with a standard tariff, eg an average 90 minute English language feature film or video would cost £660 plus VAT. Subtitled or untranslated foreign language works and videos already certificated on film, attract a lower tariff. Adverts and trailers are charged at a standard rate, as are digital media. Charities and non-profit making firms can apply for a reduced fee for works which are not to be distributed for gain.

<< Back