§ Mr. Skeffington-Lodgeasked the Secretary of State for War how many German cinemas are still requisitioned; and when he intends to return them to their owners.
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§ Mr. ShinwellOne hundred and sixty-one places of entertainment, including cinemas, concert halls and theatres in the British zone of Germany are still requisitioned on behalf of the British Army, the Royal Air Force, the Control Commission and Allied Forces. The number of cinemas included in this total is not available. Seventy-eight of the above places of entertainment are requisitioned on behalf of the British Army, including 53 cinemas, most of which are available to the Germans for part of the time. The question of derequisitioning is kept under monthly review, but while British troops remain in Germany it is essential for their morale and welfare that they be offered a high standard of entertainment, and particularly British films, as an alternative to less desirable occupations.