HC Deb 13 February 1969 vol 777 c1561
32. Mr. Silvester

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what number of usherettes is required by regulation to be present in cinemas; and when were the regulations last revised.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

The Cinematograph (Safety) Regulations require at least one attendant in the auditorium for every 250 people (or part of that number) present. In addition there must be at least one attendant on any floor or tier where up to 100 persons are present and two attendants on any floor or tier where more than 100 persons are present. The regulations relating to these matters were last revised in 1955.

Mr. Silvester

Does the hon. Gentleman agree that, in view of the changes taking place in the growth of multiple cinemas on the same site and as films are no longer inflammable, the time has come to review these regulations?

Mr. Rees

We will certainly look into it, but safety comes before economy.

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