§ 67. Sir K. WOODasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that the Russian film, "Mother," has been refused a certificate by the British Board of Film Censors, that the London County Council has refused permission for it to be exhibited, and that the West Ham Town Council has decided to allow the film to be publicly exhibited; and whether he proposes to take any action in the matter?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Clynes)I am aware that the British Board of Film Censors has refused its certificate for this film. I understand that the London County Council recently refused to allow it to be shown on a Sunday, but has not yet decided whether to permit or to refuse to permit its general exhibition. The conditions under which films may be exhibited are for the local authorities to determine, and I have no power to interfere with the discretion which has been exercised by the West Hail Town Council in this matter.
§ Sir K. WOODIs it not a very unfortunate state of affairs, when the film censor has definitely prohibited this film that a minor body like the West Ham Town Council should allow it?
§ Mr. CLYNESThe decision of the film censor has not prevented the exhibition 897 of many films, and, as I say, in this matter I have neither the power nor the wish to interfere.
§ Miss WILKINSONIn view of the confusion that is likely to arise under the present state of affairs, does not my right hon. Friend consider it urgently necessary to set up a committee of inquiry into the whole question of the licensing of films?
§ Mr. CLYNESIn this particular instance, there does not appear to be any reason for instituting an inquiry.
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEIn view of the right hon. Gentleman's reply, for what useful purpose does the film censor act?