Hypnotism
The Hypnotism Act 1952 requires any demonstrations of hypnotism for public entertainment to be licensed. It prohibits demonstrations on people under eighteen and applies to any broadcast demonstration of hypnotism at, or in connection with, an entertainment which admits the public.
Although we have no evidence of harm or potential harm regarding the use of hypnosis on television or radio we should still take steps to minimise any risk of inducing hypnosis and/or adverse reactions in susceptible viewers or listeners. In particular, a hypnotist must not broadcast his/her full verbal routine or be shown performing straight to camera. Hypnotism acts in entertainment programmes, particularly those designed to ridicule someone, should be treated with care. They might be both harmful and offensive to our audience.
Any proposal to feature a demonstration of hypnosis must be referred to a senior editorial figure or for Independents to the commissioning editor.