HC Deb 26 May 1909 vol 5 c1183
Mr. ROBERT HARCOURT

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to recent incidents in connection with the existing dramatic censorship, and also to prosecutions of music - hall managers for the performance of stage plays; whether the Government contemplate any legislation on these subjects; and, if not, should the House consent to give a second reading to the Bill introduced by the hon. Member for the Montrose Burghs and supported by members belonging to all political parties whether he would be prepared to appoint a Select Committee to examine the Bill, and hear evidence, on the understanding that the Bill would not be further pressed during the present Session?

The PRIME MINISTER

This is a very important matter and it is receiving careful consideration. I do not know what may be the fortunes of my hon. Friend's Bill, but I am disposed to agree with him that the time has come for some such inquiry as he suggests.