HC Deb 14 December 1933 vol 284 c521
30. Mr. DORAN

asked the Home Secretary if his attention has been drawn to the proposed presentation of a film entitled, Whither Germany; and, as this film is likely to prejudice our relations with a friendly country and in view of recent cases where films have offended against public taste or decency, if he will seek legislative powers to ban the exhibition of such films?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I have no knowledge of this film and cannot express any opinion as to its character. I understand that application to exhibit it in London was recently made to the London County Council and that permission was given. As I stated recently in reply to a question by the Noble Lady the Member for the Sutton Division of Plymouth (Viscountess Astor), I am of opinion that it is best that final responsibility in this matter should rest as at present with the cinematograph licensing authorities.

Mr. DORAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many Members of this House were given a special invitation to attend a showing of this film, and that for some reason or other the exhibition of the film was cancelled? Is the right hon. Gentleman also aware that the film was done in order to stimulate ill-feeling between this country and Germany and to try and rekindle the fires of war, and will the right hon. Gentleman—

Mr. SPEAKER

Mr. Lovat-Fraser.