§ 19. Mr. Gallacherasked the Minister of Information whether he is aware that a number of anti-Soviet films are on exhibit in this country; and whether, in view of their slanderous character and inaccuracies, he will take steps to stop their being exhibited?
§ The Minister of Information (Mr. Brendan Bracken)The Ministry of Information has no power to stop films except on grounds of military security. If, however, the hon. Member will give me a list of the films he has in mind, I will have inquiries made about them.
§ Mr. GallacherIs the Minister not aware that these films are deliberately produced as pro-Fascist and anti-Soviet films, and are still being shown? In view of the wide powers which the Government have, surely they should be in a position to stop these pro-Fascist films.
§ Mr. BrackenMay I remind the hon. Member of what I have said to him? The Ministry of Information has been given no power by Parliament to stop films except on the ground of national security. I am not going to act as a dictator when I have not any powers.
§ Mr. Garro JonesIs the Minister aware that though the Ministry has not that power, the Government have the power to make an order? Could he ask for such an order to be made?
§ Mr. BrackenI have not asked for an order to be made because I have asked my hon. Friend to give me the names of the films.