§ 51. Sir GEORGE PENNYasked the Home Secretary whether steps have been taken to secure a more continuous contact between local authorities and the board of film censors to prevent the exhibition of films of doubtful character and tone; and whether the Government will see if it is possible to pay special attention in this respect as regards films exhibited on Sundays?
§ Mr. SHORTSome steps have already been taken, but it has not yet been found possible to reach any decision. The question whether any special arrangement could be made as regards films exhibited on Sundays will receive consideration.
§ Mr. R. A. TAYLORWould censorship by local authorities of films exhibited on Sundays be permissible under the terms of the Sunday Performances (Regulation) Bill; and would the local authorities be able to impose it as a condition under the existing terms of the Bill?
§ Mr. SHORTThe power already rests to some extent with the local authorities. If my hon. Friend will look at the reply given by my right hon. Friend on the 11th December, he will see exactly the powers of the local authorities in relation to the censorship of films.
§ Mr. DAYIs it not the fact that no films can be shown unless they have a certificate from the British Board of Film Censors, unless, of course, they are passed by the local council?