HC Deb 25 March 1930 vol 237 cc269-70
73. Major ELLIOT

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been called to

Mr. JOHNSTON

As the answer involves a tabular statement, I propose to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the statement:

The following table contains the information desired, based on the rates payable in the years 1927–28:

the fact that the Home Office issued a circular letter on 16th December, 1929, to licensing authorities with reference to the local censorship of films for children and young people; and whether it is his intention to issue a similar letter to licensing authorities in Scotland?

Mr. JOHNSTON

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, notwithstanding decisions of the Courts in England that local authorities may attach to licences under the Cinematograph Act, 1909, conditions other than "safety" conditions, I am advised that the Courts in Scotland would be unlikely to take the same view. In the circumstances I do not propose in the meantime to issue any circular to Scottish licensing authorities.

Major WOOD

Has the hon. Member received copies of resolutions passed by several education authorities in Scotland with regard to the necessity of doing something in this matter?

Mr. JOHNSTON

Yes. Sir.

Major WOOD

What does the hon. Member propose to do?

Mr. JOHNSTON

That does not arise out of the question.