HC Deb 04 February 1926 vol 191 cc309-10
46. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister whether he has received a memorial from the Bishop of London, acting on behalf of the London Public Morality Council, representing various religious bodies and social organisations, with reference to indecent publications and stage plays; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?

Sir W. JOYNSON - HICKS

This memorial has been referred by the Prime Minister to me and is at present under consideration.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether his Department is exercising any censorship over books and publications, and, if so, which Department is doing it?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Does the hon. and gallant Member mean books published here or abroad?

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Here.

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I think not, here. Over books from abroad, I have exercised powers.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Does that mean that the right hon. Gentleman has no jurisdiction at present over publications of an obscene nature within this country?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I think the hon. and gallant Member ought to give me notice of that question. I do not want to mislead him. I have exercised powers in regard to indecent books coming from abroad, but I do not remember having exercised them in regard to books published in this country.

Colonel DAY

Is it not a fact that all stage plays must be licensed by the Lord Chamberlain before they can be performed?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think, as far as plays are concerned, that the evil could be avoided by the abolition of the censorship altogether?

Mr. J. BECKETT

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider leaving public opinion as the best judge of these matters?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Hon. Members are asking me details as to what my opinion is likely to be. I have told them I am considering the memorial, and, of course, I shall be prepared to give an answer in due course.

Colonel Sir ARTHUR HOLBROOK

In regard to indecent publications, will the right hon. Gentleman consider whether it is desirable that any further issues should be made of certain books published by a lady called Marie Stopes?