Parliament has passed a formal resolution aimed at discouraging excessive television consumption across the country.

The decision comes after a joint committee warned of the psychological and social effects of prolonged screen time on South African households.

As part of the new directive, SABC 1 will broadcast Generations: The Legacy for a continuous five-hour block each evening.

"We are not banning television," said a parliamentary spokesperson. "We are making it unpleasant."

The measure was approved without opposition. One MP reportedly raised the question, "What exactly is the legacy?"

The session adjourned without an answer.