HC Deb 19 February 1946 vol 419 cc940-1
18. Major Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Secretary of State for War what is the reason for the introduction of the provision of charging for admission to Army cinemas in C.M.F.

Mr. Lawson

Before the war, amenities generally were paid for by all ranks. During the war conditions of battle justified the provision of amenities without charge. But as these conditions have now ceased to exist it is, in my opinion, right and reasonable that the peace time practice of payment should gradually be resumed.

Major Boyd-Carpenter

In view of the conditions under which many of these men are, in fact, serving, which would not be tolerated in peace time, will the right hon. Gentleman not reconsider that decision?

Mr. Lawson

I may state that, as I informed the House on a previous occasion, these amenities were made possible in part by substantial concessions made by the cinema and entertainment industry which they are now unable or unwilling to continue.

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