HC Deb 06 February 1951 vol 483 cc1527-8
47. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Lord President of the Council the amount of money devoted to charity as a result of Sunday performances in cinemas during the last 12 months.

Mr. McNeil

I have been asked to reply.

The responsibility for deciding what amount shall be devoted to charity rests on the local licensing authorities. The exact figure for which the hon. Member asks is not available, but the amount applicable to charity during the 12 months ended 31st December last, was approximately £400,000.

Mr. Shepherd

In view of the change in public opinion since the Act came into being, and the plight of the film industry, has consideration been given to this question of altering the basis?

Mr. McNeil

That is quite another Question. which perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put down to my right hon. Friend.

Mr. George Thomas

Could my right hon. Friend give any indication of the total profit from the Sunday performances in cinemas?

Mr. McNeil

I think that my hon. Friend is under a misapprehension about the purpose of this Question, which refers to the proceeds of performances for specific charity purposes.