Comics must pledge not to offend

Comedians may have to sign a pledge promising not to cause offence before being allowed to play a major British venue.

Newcastle councillors want to introduce the policy at all council-run venues, including the 2,000-capacity City Hall, following complaints.

If the move gets the go-ahead, performers would have to promise not to breach the authority's ‘social inclusion’ rules as part of their contract.

This would include making jokes which would offend black and ethnic minorities, gays, lesbians and bisexuals, and disabled people. It could also include sexist jokes.

But anything not explicitly covered by the social inclusion policy would be fair game.

The move is thought to be aimed at Roy "Chubby" Brown – even though he has been playing the venue for more than 20 years without attracting any complaints. But other shows, such as the live version of Little Britain, scheduled to play there in November, could also be affected.

The issue was raised by public sector union Unison, and has the unanimous backing of Labour and Liberal Democrat councillors, the city’s Journal newspaper reports.

Deputy Lib Dem leader  John Shipley told the paper: "This is not about free speech. It is about whether the council should hire out its premises to those who are deliberately offensive to minorities.

"This is not attempt to ban Chubby Brown. He could tone down his act or play at a privately-run venue.

"But we don't see why something which would not be tolerated in the civic centre should be tolerated at the City Hall."

But local Tory Euro MP Martin Callanan said: "All comedy involves poking fun at people."

Published: 17 Jun 2005