Britain’s Got Talent bosses could be forced to ban children performers from the show, unless they get a license to appear.
New rules proposed this month will require that youngsters get the permission of the child’s local authority to audition and appear on TV shows.
They will also limit what producers can involve children in, with licenses required if they are involved in an “artificial situation, which may have been contrived for artistic, editorial or dramatic effect”.
The current rules – which were put in place back in 1968 – already require those under 14 to get a license when performing, although it’s unclear whether these current laws apply to TV talent shows, and to what extent.
Children’s Minister Tim Loughton said: “We want to nurture not just the big stars of the future but help all children realise their talents by being able to perform.
“Everyone should have the chance to act, sing, dance and play sport – giving them memories for life.
“The current rules get in the way of that. They are outdated, complex, confusing and not fit for purpose.
“They come from an age when there were just three television channels and bear no relation to the broadcasting or performing industries in the 21st century.”
The new rules will put pressure on the producers of the TV show to prove that they can handle young performers, and have put in place measures to prevent emotional distress.
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