HC Deb 12 February 1948 vol 447 cc550-1
13. Mr. Dumpleton

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware of the difficulty experienced by producers of films suitable for children's entertainment by reason of the provisions of the existing law relating to the employment of children, which makes it impossible to produce films in this country which include child actors; and whether he will consider the introduction of amending legislation which, with suitable safeguards, will remove this disability.

Mr. Ede

I am aware of the difficulty to which my hon. Friend refers; and I have decided to appoint a small departmental committee to consider under what safeguards, as to health, welfare and education, the employment of children as film actors could properly be allowed.

Mrs. Leah Manning

In view of the importance of children leading normal lives, will my right hon. Friend give an assurance that he will do nothing hastily to withdraw the protection of the Children and Young Persons Act in this connection?

Mr. Ede

I desire to get the advice of this Committee on the way in which that protection can be ensured for these children under reasonable conditions.