§ Mr. Crouchasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he proposes to seek powers to control stage performances by hypnotists.
§ Mr. WhitelawUnder the Hypnotism Act 1952 the authorities which issue licences for the regulation of public dancing, singing, music or public entertainments of like kind are empowered to attach to those licences conditions regulating or prohibiting exhibitions, demonstrations or performances of hypnotism. I have considered representations which I have received from my hon. Friend and from my noble Friend the Earl of Kinnoull, that the provisions of the Act should extend to performances at present outside its control. The Government have no plans for legislation in this area, but the Home Office has asked representatives of the stage hypnotists to consider formulating a code of practice to govern such performances.