HC Deb 22 June 1920 vol 130 cc1999-2000
60. Mr. DOYLE

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the increasing popularity of cinema shows, and the admitted influence the representations of burglaries and serious offences have on the juvenile population, as shown by the cases brought before police courts, he will consider the desirability of the appointment of an official censor, whose consent must first be obtained before pictures are shown to the public?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Shortt)

My hon. Friend's suggestion would require legislation, which I am afraid is impossible at the present time.

Viscountess ASTOR

May I press upon the right hon. Gentleman the need of legislation on this matter, because it is having a tremendous effect on children throughout the country, and great pressure is being brought by women all over England, asking that something should be done?

Mr. SHORTT

I am afraid legislation is not possible at present.