HC Deb 05 May 1938 vol 335 c1013
26. Mr. Viant

asked the Home Secretary the reason for the delay of three years without announcing the name of the chairman of the new advisory committee to be appointed under the terms of the Cinematograph Act?

Sir S. Hoare

The hon. Member is under a misapprehension. The decision to reconstitute the Film Censorship Consultative Committee appointed in 1931 was communicated in July last to The various bodies who had nominated representatives to the original committee. As the Under-Secretary told the hon. Member on Monday, I hope shortly to be in a position to announce the appointment of a chairman.

Mr. Ammon

Is it not a fact that this recommendation was made as long ago as 1935? Is it not time that a chairman was appointed?

Sir S. Hoare

We have approached one or two gentlemen whom I thought suitable but, unfortunately, they have not been able to serve. At the present time I am making inquiries.

Mr. Ammon

Does the right hon. Gentleman suggest that there is such a dearth of qualified men that it takes three years to find a chairman?