§ 61. Mr. Levyasked the Home Secretary whether he will take steps to ensure that cinema performances are provided on Sundays in all districts where there are substantial concentrations of troops; and whether he will obtain the necessary power, by legislation or regulation, to override local authorities which have banned Sunday cinema shows?
§ Sir J. AndersonNo, Sir. As at present advised, I could not recommend that power should be taken to override local opinion in this matter as suggested by my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. LevyDoes not the Minister think it absurd that the troops should have to go and fight on Sundays and concerts are allowed for them on Sundays, but that in some parts of the country cinemas have not been allowed to open because of the fuss that has been made by some of the people in the localities?
§ Mr. Glenvil HallWould the right hon. Gentleman also remember that overseas troops wander around the streets with nothing at all to do on Sundays?
§ Sir J. AndersonI think the House is aware that a regulation was recently made providing for a greatly simplified procedure for regulating the Sunday opening of cinemas. My information is that good use is being made of that procedure, and about 30 Orders have already reached the Home Office.