60. Mr. PAYasked the First Lord of the Admiralty the number of ships of His Majesty's Navy that are fitted up with the necessary machines and equipment for the exhibition of cinematograph films; and the number of these that can exhibit sound films?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Ammon)None of His Majesty's ships is fitted officially with silent cinematograph apparatus; and I have no information as to the number of ships which possess portable silent apparatus—as the property of the ships' companies. As regards the last part of the question, the answer given to my hon. Friend on 29th April (OFFICIAL REPORT, column 1635) still holds good.
§ Mr. DAYDoes that mean that none of the ships already fitted with silent machines can be used for "talkies" in any way?
§ Mr. AMMONI cannot answer that question. These machines are the property of the officers and men and have nothing to do with the Admiralty.