No manga banned by Tokyo as too racy

One year since Tokyo’s youth protection ordinances were revised to prevent the sale of anime and manga containing extreme sexual content to minors, not one publication has been deemed unfit for consumption.

While some experts say the change was unnecessary, the Tokyo metropolitan government insists the revision has stopped publishers from releasing overtly sexual books and magazines.

Under the regulation, the metropolitan council for minors can deem a publication to be too sexual for readers aged under 18. Retailers are banned from selling or displaying these publications to minors.

As part of the revision, books and magazines that praise or exaggerate improper sexual activities, such as incest, are being targeted.

Ryokichi Yama, head of the editing ethics committee at the Japan Magazine Publishers Association, which has more than 90 domestic publishers among its members, said the Tokyo government has not applied the new standard to any publications because it is cautious.

In contrast, the Tokyo government’s section for youth affairs said self-restraint by publishers is ensuring sexual anime and manga are being sold at locations that are unaccessible to people aged under 18.

Tokyo Gov. Shintaro Ishihara believes the revised ordinance has achieved results. “Writers and publishers have started using common sense when it comes to publishing books,” he said at a press conference.

The Yoimuri Shimbun, July 3, 2012
See original article at:http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120702004395.htm