HC Deb 11 July 1927 vol 208 cc1718-9
4. Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been drawn to the nature of certain American films that are being shown in India; and what steps are being taken to prevent such films being shown?

Earl WINTERTON

The Government of India were asked, by a despatch dated 31st March last, to give their attention to the whole question of the censorship of films shown in India and particularly to the question of the suitability or unsuitability of films of Western, especially of American, production for exhibition in India. The Government of India's reply is awaited; and I have no information as to what steps have as yet been taken to strengthen the existing system of censorship.

Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is the Noble Lord aware that public opinion is very seriously disturbed in India over the harm which is done by these undesirable films?

Earl WINTERTON

Yes, but that disturbance is not greater than the disturbance caused in this country. The problem is an exceedingly difficult one, and it is to find an efficient form of censorship for films.

Colonel DAY

Is the Noble Lord aware that the last film banned was a British film and not an American film?

Earl WINTERTON

I do not know that, but, at any rate, it was an undesirable film.