I think they released all four films in a special boxset a couple of years back and Batman Returns was given a 12 for that release, with some minor edits to fit the rating.
I got the Region 1 version of the boxset though so I can't be sure. This is just what I heard.
I have a Batman Returns on VHS and its a 15. But I think the 12 version has cut out the scene where Catwoman places the aerosol cans in the microwave before the department store explodes.
i agree that it might not be the filmakers fault but feel the censors are under pressure to lower the certificates for money !they want have a greater audience for the films as possible and if its an 18 they wont make as much as a 15 cert or even lower with a restricted audience !!
Same here, never witnessed a thing like stabbing at all where I am.
Although, didn't witness it since it was years ago, but a few metres down the road from our village a man murdered someone with a shotgun on his farm...