HC Deb 13 September 1939 vol 351 cc642-3
41. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Home Secretary whether he will consider the advisability of granting early permission for the reopening of the theatres and cinemas at any rate until black-out time, so as to afford that relaxation and entertainment to the people at present being provided only by licensed premises and the British Broadcasting Corporation?

Sir J. Anderson

As my hon. Friend is aware, it has already been arranged for places of entertainment in neutral and reception areas to open, subject to the power of the chief officer of police to keep any particular premises closed. As regards relaxation of the prohibition in the remaining areas, or in some of them, I have the matter under close consideration and hope to be in a position to make a definite statement before the weekend.

Sir T. Moore

Will my right hon. Friend remember that cinemas are more fit for meeting places than public houses?

Mr. Gallacher

Does the Minister consider it desirable that police chiefs should completely prohibit the opening of cinemas in neutral areas, as is happening?

Sir J. Anderson

I think there may be local circumstances, not generally known, which make it desirable to take such action.