HC Deb 13 November 1930 vol 244 cc1844-5
51. Mr. SMITH ERS

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to a play entitled "Green Pastures," appearing in serial form in a daily newspaper; and whether he will consider the advisability of taking action in respect of this publication as a blasphemous libel?

Mr. CLYNES

I have seen some of the issues in question. The play is one about which conflicting views may be held, but I should deprecate proceedings in cases where there is no apparent intention to give offence to anyone's religious convictions.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this play in particular has been hailed by religious leaders as a most beautiful piece of work?

Mr. CLYNES

I believe that is so.

Mr. COCKS

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that the publication of this beautiful and moral play reflects the greatest credit upon the newspaper concerned?

Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLE

Is it not a fact that the publication of this play is a disgraceful piece of journalism?

Viscountess ASTOR

Not at all. Is it not a fact—

HON. MEMBERS

Order!