'Hooker' video set to fuel sneak-shot controversy

A new video called Hookers is likely to add fresh controversy to the row about the making of films using "real-life" footage from surveillance and closed-circuit cameras.

Due out in two weeks, it is thought to feature scenes of prostitutes working in the street and also in hotel rooms captured on hidden cameras.

The makers, EduVision, last night declined to reveal more details about the film, how it was made or where the footage was gathered.

But as it is likely contain an explosive mixture of sex and surveillance, Hookers was predicted by the industry to raise new questions about intrusion, privacy and copyright following the Government's attempt to ban a video featuring operations.

One industry source told The Independent: "We think Hookers is going to cause another row, not just over its content but about how it was made."

The controversy over Everyday Operations continued yesterday with its producers claiming it was medics who first proposed making the film.

David Donaghue, of the video's makers, IMC Video, said he was contacted "originally by an award-winning medical training video organisation run by medically qualified people. They said they had footage that they felt was worthy of a wider audience", he said.

Sales of the video, which costs pounds 12.99, were halted on Sunday after the Department of Health obtained an interiminjunction.

The health minister, Gerry Malone, warned that he would take a "very serious view" of any breach of patient confidentiality by the NHS in the making of the video. He said he was determined to ensure that the guidelines on confidentiality were properly adhered to.

A full hearing is expected later this week but Mr Donaghue said the ban would be fought.

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