HC Deb 06 July 1959 vol 608 cc92-3W
78. Mr. Swingler

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs on how many occasions in the last four years his Department has been asked to give advice about the screening of films at home or abroad; what advice was given in each case; and on what grounds.

Mr. R. Allan

As far as I can ascertain, the Foreign Office has been asked for advice about two films in this period. The advice given in one case was that it might impair relations with friendly Governments; in the other that it might be misunderstood.

79. Mr. Swingler

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs why his Department advised the British Film Producers' Association that the film "Carlton-Browne of the Foreign Office" was unsuitable for screening at the Moscow Film Festival in August.

Mr. R. Allan

This film is an excellent satire which British audiences are enjoying. It might, however, make a very different impression on a Soviet audience. When asked for its informal opinion, therefore, the Foreign Office suggested that it was not altogether suitable for the Moscow Film Festival.