HC Deb 10 June 1952 vol 502 cc5-6
7. Mr. Swingler

asked the President of the Board of Trade what recommendations he has now received from the Cinematograph Films Council about the prosecution of film quota defaulters; and what action he proposes to take.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

In respect of 55 theatres out of 105 cases of first feature default so far examined by the Cinematograph Films Council the advice given me is such that I would not be justified in issuing a certificate under Section 13 of the Cinematograph Films Act, 1938. I am considering which of these cases are suitable for prosecution. As regards supporting programme defaults, investigations are still proceeding. In the circumstances it would be best for me not to make any further comment.

Mr. Swingler

Will the right hon. Gentleman speed up his consideration of these widespread defaults in order to make the quota effective? Will he also look very carefully at the recommendations of the Cinematograph Films Council in view of the fact that the most notorious defaulters are represented in that Council and sit in judgment upon themselves?

Mr. Thorneycroft

With regard to the speed of my operations, I am doing a good deal better than the previous Government did. For the quota year 1948–49 no prosecution was heard until November, 1950.

Mr. Wyatt

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that he told me some weeks ago that the question of the prosecution of the Empire Cinema, Leicester Square, was under consideration, that cinema having shown one British film in the last two years? What is happening about this prosecution?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I am now, as in duty bound, taking the advice of the Cinematograph Films Council. When that advice is received, as it has been in these cases, I am examining the question of evidence and so forth with regard to prosecution.

Mr. Wyatt

Did not the right hon. Gentleman say he was considering the prosecution of this cinema before he received the advice of the Cinematograph Films Council?

Mr. Thorneycroft

If the hon. Member has a question on a particular cinema, perhaps he will put it down.