§ Commander Maitlandasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that no cinematograph entertainments may be provided for men in Army camps if there is a commercial cinema within two miles; and whether, in view of the fact that this restriction is applied to camps where there is only a small cinema within the two mile radius which cannot provide adequate accommodation or entertainment for the men, he will either abolish the restriction or arrange for it to be applied with greater discretion and elasticity.
§ Mr. LawsonThe present agreement with the trade concerned is that in the United Kingdom the Army will not exhibit films less than 12 months old within two miles of a commercial cinema which can provide adequate accommodation for the troops in the area. There is no restriction on exhibitions abroad and no restrictions in the United Kingdom, in the use of films over 12 months old. Cases where the accommodation in local commercial cinemas is inadequate are considered on their merits. The trade has shown every consideration for the needs of the troops and, in every case which has been dealt with under this procedure, has agreed to meet the requirements of the military authorities.