HC Deb 04 February 1932 vol 261 cc234-5
21. Mr. GLOSSOP

asked the Home Secretary if he will consider introducing legislation to revise the censorship re- garding films in such a way as to exclude films which are likely to have a demoralising effect on the audiences to which they are shown?

Sir H. SAMUEL

Recently I appointed a consultative committee consisting of representatives of the London County Council, County Councils' Association, and Association of Municipal Corporations, with the object of promoting closer co-operation between the British Board of Film Censors and the local licensing authorities, who under the existing law have the power of control over the films exhibited in their area. There does not appear to be any ground for proposing legislation on this subject. If the hon. Member will he good enough to send me any information he has in his possession as to the exhibition of demoralising films, I shall be glad to refer it to the committee for their consideration.

Mr. GLOSSOP

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that under existing legislation a most demoralising film by the name of "Frankenstein" is at present being exhibited in London?

Sir H. SAMUEL

I am afraid that I cannot deal with individual cases by way of question and answer. If the hon. Member will give me particulars, I will have them inquired into.

Colonel BALDWIN-WEBB

Has a woman been appointed to the committee?

Sir H. SAMUEL

I should be obliged if the hon. and gallant Member would give me notice of that question.

Sir J. NALL

Can the right hon. Gentleman say if any films relating to tariffs have been submitted to the Cabinet?