HC Deb 25 June 1941 vol 372 cc1025-6
11. Mr. Edmund Harvey

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to the effect of colour bar restrictions in Nairobi in preventing West African troops, serving in the Forces there, from entering private cinemas; and whether steps can be taken by ordinance, or otherwise, to remove this colour bar discrimination?

Mr. George Hall

There is no general restriction on the entry of West African troops into private cinemas in Nairobi. Some films are, however, passed by the Film Censorship Board for exhibition to non-Africans only, in accordance with the Cinematograph Film Censorship Rules, 1930, which were passed because it was considered that certain films are not suitable for exhibition to African audiences. My Noble Friend is in communication with the Governor of Kenya, from whom further details are awaited.

Mr. Harvey

May we take it that the Government will use all their influence against the extension of colour bars there and elsewhere?

Mr. Hannah

Are these films entirely suitable for white audiences?

Mr. Hall

That is a matter which must be left to the Censorship Board, and that is one of the questions on which we are asking for information. I want to assure the hon. Member for the Combined English Universities (Mr. Harvey) that my Noble Friend and myself are very concerned about this matter.