HC Deb 22 February 1944 vol 397 cc643-4
39. Mr. Colman

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that his Department has commandeered the Scala Theatre which is now occupied by a leading company producing classical drama and which is the only one in the neighbourhood; why some other building could not have been taken over for the welfare of American troops; and whether, since action of this kind deprives both troops and public of legitimate entertainment, he will reinvestigate the whole facts with the object of reaching some other decision less damaging and disquieting to the entertainment industry as a whole.

Sir J. Griģģ

The decision to requisition the Scala Theatre was taken only after a number of alternative premises had been considered, none of which, for various reasons, were available and suitable. The purpose for which the theatre is needed covers more than "welfare" and includes military training by means of lectures and the showing of films. I am going into this matter personally but pending a thorough reconsideration it has been found possible to delay the requisition until 1st April.

Mr. Colman

The right hon. Gentleman's reply is very indefinite. Is he aware that this production costs some thousands of pounds, that it has been advertised on posters and in the Press and that the advance booking goes far beyond the date on which the War Office intends to go into occupation?

Sir J. Griģģ

I should have thought the promise I had given was pretty definite.

Mr. Glenvil Hall

Has another theatre running comedies been considered as an alternative?

Sir J. Griģģ

Nine other theatres were looked at. I cannot say which the hon. Member has in mind.

Mr. Keeling

Is my right hon. Friend aware that a five months' Shakespeare season began at this theatre, the very day before he requisitioned it? If he has to requisition a theatre will he not consider choosing Phyllis Dixey rather than Shakespeare for ejection?

Mr. Lipson

When does my right hon. Friend hope to come to a further decision?

Sir J. Griģģ

It would surely be unreasonable to ask that. At any rate, there is more than a month's stay of execution.

Mr. Austin Hopkinson

Will the right hon. Gentleman take notice that in the opinion of this House the drama should have precedence over military requirements?

Mr. Stokes

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is the only theatre producing Shakespeare? Would it not be to our educational advantage if a cinema were closed down instead?