Russians Debate Sale Of Sexual Items

In a country that shed its modesty along with the Soviet system, a bill that would restrict the sale of items with a “sexual character” is raising moral questions.

Pornographic magazines and videos have become widespread since the Soviet breakup in 1991, and many clubs and restaurants feature topless dancers.

The Russian parliament, after heated debate, gave preliminary approval Thursday to a bill that would restrict where such clubs could be located and products be sold. The lower house voted 294-47 in favor of the measure.

If it becomes law, sex-related goods would be barred from subway stations, street kiosks and other public places where they now are sold.

Pornographic television programs could be shown only after 11 p.m. and would require a warning about the contents.

Some lawmakers opposed the bill on the grounds it would give legal status to what they described as “immoral pornography.”

“This law tramples on the cultural and ethic traditions of the Russian people who never accepted promiscuity,” said Nikolai Kharitonov.

He said the bill would contribute to the “moral degradation of the society and the downfall of the family.”

Before becoming law, the bill must receive final approval in the lower house, be passed by the upper house and signed by President Boris Yeltsin.