§ 5. Mr. W. T. Aitkenasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why a Borstal boy, aged 18, was taken under escort to see the film "A Street Car Named Desire" at Hull, Yorkshire, on or about 13th March; and if, in view of the sordid and degrading nature of this film, he will investigate the mental and moral qualifications of those charged with the administration of the institution in which this boy was detained.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeIt is usual for selected senior boys in Borstal institutions to be allowed as a privilege to visit a cinema or other place of entertainment from time to time. At Hull the practice is for members of the staff who are visiting the cinema in their off-duty hours to be allowed to take with them two inmates who have qualified for this privilege. The choice of film in this particular case may have been unfortunate, but I do not think the incident calls for any further action on my part.
§ Mr. DribergA jolly good film.
§ Mr. AitkenCan my right hon. and learned Friend say which official of the institution was responsible for taking this boy to see the film?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeI should like to make it clear that the boys pay for themselves out of their earnings. The privilege is much valued by those of the 809 special grade, and is a great incentive to raising the standard of work and conduct. I really do not think it is necessary for me to name the official concerned.
§ 18. Brigadier R. Medlicottasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what facilities are available for boys at Borstal institutes to see films either of an educational or recreational character.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeArrangements vary from one institution to another, but on average there is a programme of educational films about once a week and of recreational films about twice a month.