§ 9. Mr. DAYasked the Home Secretary whether he has any records of any persons being arrested in the Metropolitan police area for taking films on private property; and whether there are any police regulations in the Metropolis which prohibit the filming of cinematograph films within specified private areas?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSRecords have been searched for the past two years, but no such arrest can be traced; nor are there any police regulations prohibiting the taking of cinematograph films within specified private areas. A film actor was, however, arrested on the 12th March for "wilfully obstructing the free passage of the highway by causing a crowd to assemble at King's Road, Chelsea, through film acting," and in June last summonses were issued against certain persons connected with a film company for causing obstruction in Piccadilly. In both cases the filming—though visible to persons on the highway—actually took place in private places. Proceedings were taken under Section 72 of the Highway Act, 1835, and there was a conviction in each case.
§ Mr. DAYIn view of the fact that the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force give facilities now to British film companies, would not the right hon. Gentleman consider giving instructions or suggesting to the police that benevolent 1828 consideration should be given to applications from British film companies to take films off private property?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI have given the hon. Member a very full answer. He must see that the paramount interest is the interest of His Majesty's subjects who desire to use the streets for their proper purpose, and, while I am willing that film people should do anything they like, they must not cause crowds to assemble and block the King's highway.
§ Mr. DAYIs it not a fact that American and other foreign film companies obtain permission where British film companies, which are taking British films and giving employment to British subjects, are unable to get it?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThat is not only raising another question, but making a very serious suggestion against my Department.
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSIf the hon. Member will let me have the full details—and he must let me have them—I will inquire into them.