§ 19. Sir J. BUTCHERasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the observations made by Mr. Justice Darling, on 4th June last, at the close of the case of Rex v. Billing, in which, after referring to the character of the play "Salome," and to the mode of its production, and to the scanty costumes worn by actresses in certain classes of plays, he pointed out that people who cannot get the leave of the Censor to produce plays in the ordinary way are able, apparently, as the law stands, to produce them in this sort of fashion privately by subscriptions or by some way in which, apparently, they cannot be stopped, and that in his opinion it ought to be made impossible for plays of this kind to be produced before any audience; and whether he will introduce legislation to remedy the evils indicated by the learned judge?
§ Sir G. CAVEMy attention has been called to the learned judge's observations. 880 I cannot undertake at the present time to introduce legislation for the purpose of extending the system of licences to genuine private performances. But I think it undesirable that theatres which are licensed for public performances should be used for so-called "private" performances of the character described. As regards the patent theatres, which are under the control of the Lord Chamberlain, precautions have already been taken, and I am bringing the matter to the attention of the other licensing authorities.
§ Sir J. BUTCHERWould it not be possible, without legislation, to ensure that the production of these indecent plays in theatres and public halls, which are let for hire, should be under the control of the Censor?
§ Sir G. CAVEThat is a thing I am doing my best to effect.
§ Mr. KINGIs it not the fact that the judge's observation on this occasion was such that the kindest thing possible is not to bring it up or remind people of it?
§ Sir J. BUTCHERIs not my hon. Friend aware that that is a very foolish question?