§ 35. Mr. Raphael Tuckasked the Attorney-General whether he is aware that the present law relating to the employment of children is being disregarded in films and television; whether he will take immediate steps to stop this; and what action he proposes to take regarding that part of the Children and Young Persons Act, 1963, which has not yet been brought into effect.
§ The Attorney-General (Sir Elwyn Jones)Part II of the Children and Young Persons Act, 1963, and the Children (Performances) Regulations, 1968, made under that Act will come into full operation on 3rd March. In these circumstances, I do not think it would be helpful to discuss the enforcement of enactments which will cease to have effect on that date.
§ Mr. TuckWould not my right hon. and learned Friend agree that those Regulations do not effectively control the employment of children in films and television? Under them, for example, a child aged one or two could be employed in advertising on television. In the circumstances, will my right hon. and learned Friend consider drafting entirely new legislation to achieve the desired effect?
§ The Attorney-GeneralQuestions about the Regulations and their content should be addressed to my right hon Friend the Home Secretary. But the proposed Regulations represent a considerable improvement in the situation.