HC Deb 05 March 1925 vol 181 c630
40. Sir ARTHUR CHURCHMAN

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to an electric flashlight advertisement representing a cannon firing an explosive shell which has been erected in proximity to the Cenotaph; and whether he will invite this House to give him power to regulate advertisements of this character?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. There is a Bill at present before the other House which seeks to empower local authorities to restrict or prevent the exhibition of advertisements so as to disfigure or injuriously affect the amenities of any historic or public monument.

Sir A. CHURCHMAN

Will the Government give facilities for the Bill dealing with this subject?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I think that we had better wait and see what reception is given to the Bill when it comes down here.

Sir A. CHURCHMAN

In view of the fact that the Cenotaph is a national monument, does the right hon. Gentleman not think that the environment of a national monument should be under the control of the Government?

Mr. SPEAKER

This is not the time for the raising of that question.

Mr. MACLEAN

Docs the right hon. Gentleman not think that legislation such as he has indicated is a restriction of private enterprise?