HC Deb 13 July 1938 vol 338 cc1302-3
19. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what is the object of Mr. Noel Coward's visits to the Fleet in connection with ship cinemas; and whether there is a Naval officer who acts as liaison officer between the Navy and the cinema trade?

Mr. Cooper

Mr. Noel Coward has consented to serve as a member of the Committee of the Royal Naval Film Corporation, and the object of his recent visits to the Home Fleet, Mediterranean Fleet and the three depots has been to ascertain the type of film most appreciated by the personnel. No charges have fallen upon public funds or on those of the Royal Naval Film Corporation as Mr. Coward has generously met all expenses himself. The Deputy-Director of Personal Services for Personnel, in his capacity as Chairman of the Working Committee, at present carries out the work of liaison officer with the cinema trade as part of his ordinary duties in connection with the personnel.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Is the First Lord satisfied that the ratings in the Fleet are fully aware that no charges fall on public funds or on canteen funds in respect of the work of the gentlemen whose names have been quoted which has so greatly benefited the ships' cinemas?

Mr. Cooper

There is no reason to suppose that the ratings have any suspicion that any charge falls on public funds. I know they are very pleased to have this attention paid to their wishes.

Mr. Day

Can the Minister say whether these officers are endeavouring to see that the same amount of British films are used as under the Quota Bill?

Mr. Mander

Will there be any films showing British merchant vessels being bombed?