HC Deb 14 December 1943 vol 395 cc1382-3
43. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for War what representations he has received by or on behalf of commanding officers, welfare officers and others associated with the Army in connection with the banning of Sunday performances for the troops; whether he has taken any steps to ascertain the feeling of officers and the ranks on this matter; and whether any restrictions are imposed on the presentation of plays or of entertainments in costume when given in military camps?

Sir J. Grigg

I am aware that action has been taken to stop proposed entertainments for the troops on Sundays outside military camps which would infringe the Sunday Entertainments Act, 1932. The amendment of the Act has been frequently considered by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary, and in this connection I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply he received on 8th December. There is no restriction on the presentations of plays or entertainments in costume inside military camps.

Mr. Sorensen

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that practically every soldier to whom I have spoken feels that it is absurd to discriminate in this way between costume shows inside a camp and outside? What steps is he taking to see that those who fight on Sundays should also have the recreation they desire on Sundays?

Sir J. Grigg

As I understand it, this remedy is within the discretion of the House, and in 1941 the House rejected a proposal on the subject.

Earl Winterton

Would it not be advisable to give the House of Commons, many of whose Members have an undue fear of the Sabbatarians, a lead in the matter?

Sir J. Grigg

The Home Secretary in 1941 did give a lead, and it was rejected.

Sir William Davison

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the whole question of the common informer?

Mr. Sorensen

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer the first part of the Question, regarding the ascertainment of welfare officers and others regarding this matter?

Sir J. Grigg

I hardly need to ascertain. I have not the slightest doubt that the vast majority of these troops regard this procedure as ridiculous.