US: New York has banned the use of mobile phones during plays, movies and concerts, as well as in galleries and museums. Culprits who flout the new regulations will be fined $50.
Mobiles may still be set on vibrate mode and people will be permitted to speak on their phones in lobbies and during intermissions. Audible pagers have also been outlawed.
Mr Phil Reed, the Manhattan councillor who sponsored the legislation, said the idea came from theatre owners who had tired of incessant phone ringing and loud conversations during performances.
"I think it's a real quality of life issue," said Mr Reed.
"People overwhelmingly want this to happen. And because it would only apply during the performance, it's not a lot to ask of people."
The decision overrode a veto by the city's mayor, Mr Michael Bloomberg, who argued that it would be almost impossible to enforce. - (Guardian Service)