Obscene Publications Act 1959
UK Speech Law Reference — Law 11 of 12
The Obscene Publications Act 1959 governs the publication of obscene material in the UK.
Test of Obscenity (s.1)
An article is obscene if its effect, taken as a whole, tends to deprave and corrupt persons who are likely, having regard to all relevant circumstances, to read, see, or hear it.
Prohibition (s.2)
Publishing an obscene article, or having one for publication for gain, is an offence. Summary: up to 6 months. Indictment: up to 5 years and unlimited fine.
Public Good Defence (s.4)
Publication justified in the interests of science, literature, art, or learning, or other objects of general concern. Expert evidence on merits is admissible.
Source: legislation.gov.uk. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.