§ Mr. SORENSENasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that, in certain European States, children are only allowed to witness certain types of cinematograph pictures; and whether he will consider the desirability of securing similar discrimination in this country?
§ Mr. CLYNESYes, and I would remind my hon. Friend that the same principle has been adopted in this country. For many years the Board of Film Censors has made a practice of dividing films into those suitable for universal exhibition and those suitable for exhibition only to adult audiences. Most local authorities enforce this classification by requiring that no film which has not been passed for universal exhibition shall be shown to any child under 16 unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. A circular letter was recently issued to local authorities urging those who had not already done so to adopt this practice. I will send my hon. Friend a copy of the circular.
§ Mr. SORENSENasked the Home Secretary whether he proposes to take 1343W any action with regard to the resolutions he has received from education and municipal authorities urging that only non-inflammable films be allowed in the display of cinematograph pictures when children form the major portion of an audience?
§ Mr. CLYNESI would refer my hon. Friend to the full answer which I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Western Renfrew (Dr. Forgan) on 23rd January. I then mentioned the mechanical difficulties connected with the use of the less inflammable types of film. I also promised when the results of the investigation into the Paisley disaster are known to consider whether any amendment of the regulations is required. I am afraid I cannot say more at present.