HC Deb 01 November 1956 vol 558 cc1614-5
48. Mr. Keegan

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the recent performance of unlicensed plays in certain theatres, he will now abolish or modify the present system of censorship of plays.

Mr. Deedes

No, Sir.

Mr. Keegan

Does my hon. Friend not think that a system of censorship so capable of evasion as this is today, and a system which permits vulgarity to be displayed while banning serious works, is wholly unjustified?

Mr. Deedes

The production of unlicensed plays by theatre clubs is not a new development.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

In view of the fact that the present standards on which play censorship works are so obviously out of date as to lead to many anomalies, cannot some steps be taken to bring this whole matter more into conformity with enlightened public opinion?

Mr. Deedes

I do not accept the premise on which the right hon. Gentleman bases that question.