HC Deb 06 March 1946 vol 420 cc320-1
30. Squadron-Leader Donner

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what arrangements exist throughout the African colonies for the censorship on licensing of films imported from any outside source; and whether he will satisfy himself, after consultation with the various governments, that existing arrangements are adequate.

Mr. Creech Jones

Film censorship boards have been established by legislation in all African territories, with power to prohibit the exhibition of films. The supply of films to Colonial territories generally is engaging my right hon. Friend's attention and the question of the adequacy of the existing censorship arrangements will be borne in mind in his consultations with Colonial Governments.

Squadron-Leader Donner

Is the Undersecretary aware that many of the films now being shown in Africa are wholly unsuitable, and will he look into that?

Mr. Creech Jones

Yes, Sir; it is a matter which is engaging, again, our active attention.

Mr. Skeffington-Lodge

Will the Undersecretary endeavour to see that these American films, which portray a perfectly wrong set of values for people like the Africans to look at, are excluded from being shown in that part of the world?

Mr. Creech Jones

I answered that question; local Governments have power of censorship