HC Deb 31 March 1938 vol 333 cc2167-8
31. Mr. T. Williams

asked the Home Secretary how many certificates have been granted by the London County Council for the exhibition of films which had been banned by the censor during the past two years; and how many cinemas exhibited these films?

Sir S. Hoare

I am informed that there have been nine such cases since 1st April, 1936. I have no information as to the actual number of cinemas at which the films in question were exhibited, but so far as I am aware it is a very limited one.

Mr. Williams

Are we to understand that such films are exhibited exclusively at some special cinemas in London or are they exhibited in other places outside London?

Sir S. Hoare

I have no information other than that which I have given to the hon. Member. This is entirely a matter for the London County Council, which is the authority for this purpose.

Mr. Williams

Does the Censor's Department follow these films in order to see exactly how frequently they are shown, and where they are shown, after the Censor has banned them?

Sir S. Hoare

As I say, this is the responsibility of the London County Council, and I have no reason to believe there is any ground for any complaint against the administration of the Council.

Mr. Day

Is it not the case that they are seen by the representatives of the Surrey and Middlesex County Councils at the same time?