§ 30. Mr. LECKIEasked the Home Secretary whether he will consider the addition of at least one woman to the film censorship consultative committee?
§ Sir H. SAMUELThe committee to which my hon. Friend refers is composed entirely of persons nominated by the authorities responsible for the licensing of cinemas. The committee on appointment consisted of 10 members nominated by the County Councils Association, the Municipal Corporations Association, and the London County Council. It was decided subsequently to add two members to represent those authorities where the licensing power is delegated to Justices, and, as no woman had as yet been nominated, I suggested that the opportunity might be taken of selecting a woman. The authorities concerned found it impossible on this occasion to act on this suggestion. In the circumstances I regret that I am unable to take any action at present, but I will certainly bear the point in mind whenever a vacancy occurs.
Viscountess ASTORWill not the right hon. Gentleman tell those concerned that the House of Commons as a whole would rather have a woman on the committee?
§ Sir H. SAMUELI am not sure that the whole House has expressed that opinion.