HC Deb 07 April 1927 vol 204 cc2240-1
15. Sir F. HALL

asked the Home Secretary whether he has received any Report from the police authorities as to certain films containing subversive propaganda which have been brought into this country from Russia; what steps are taken to prevent aliens or others suspected of revolutionary tendencies from bringing propaganda films or literature into this country; and whether he will consider taking further powers to enable this to be done effectively?

Sir W. J0YNS0N HICKS

I receive reports as occasion arises in regard to the importation or proposed importation of films of this character, and appropriate steps are taken. As at present advised I do not think any further powers are required in this connection.

Sir F. HALL

Then the right hon. Gentleman can keep out these subversive propaganda films?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I have certain powers, and in certain cases I have exercised those powers. If the hon. and gallant Member or any other hon. Member gives me information of a film coming over which is of a really bad character, it is open to mo to consider it and, if necessary, take action.

Sir F. HALL

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think the film referred to in this question would come within the category of a bad film? [HON. MEMBERS: "Which one?"] You all know it—"Black Sunday."

Mr. R. MORRISON

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that it would not be possible to show any films of this character in this country until they had passed the censor?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The question of the censorship is really not in my hands. As the House knows, it is in the hands of a much respected Member of the House, and while that is so I cannot hold myself responsible for the way in which this is administered. I have no powers.

Mr. THURTLE

If a film were brought in of a reactionary Conservative Government, would that be regarded as subversive?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I think if the hon. Member were Home Secretary, he might stop it.

Colonel DAY

Is it not a fact that the censorship at present exercised by the right hon. Gentleman who is a Member of this House has always been very successful, and been carried out very efficiently?

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