§ 27. Commander Sir Archibald Southbyasked the Minister of Information in what respects the American film censor has asked for alteration or deletion in the dialogue of the British naval film "In Which We serve" sent to America for exhibition?
§ Mr. BrackenI am told that the Censorship Office of the American film industry has taken exception to certain expressions put into the mouths of sailors in this film. The producers and distributors of the film take the view that these expressions are seamanlike and appropriate.
§ Sir A. SouthbyHas my right hon. Friend's attention been drawn to a report that some cuts are being asked for on the ground that Italian susceptibilities in the United States might be offended? Observing that the film gained universal approbation in this country, will my 1553 right hon. Friend see that a film which has pleased the British people is shown to the American people just as it is?
§ Mr. BrackenI have no right to give orders to the American film censors. I would not dream of doing so. But I think you can leave it to the American Press and the American public to see that the squeamishness and old-maiden-aunt-like apprehensions of these Hollywood censors are overcome.
§ Commander Locker-LampsonCan my right hon. Friend say what the words are?
§ Major MarkhamIs my right hon. Friend aware that films showing British troops in action are always silent films?