NATURE OF FILMS

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XVII, Issue 207, 16 August 1927, Page 5

NATURE OF FILMS

PERMEATED WITH SEX ININTERESTS. MINISTER PROMISES STRICTER CENSORSHIP. Wellington, Aug. Id. A deputation from the Public Questions Committee of the Presbyterian General Assembly to the Hon. R. H. Bollard to-day, protested* against the nature of many of the films being screened at the present time. Dr. Gibb said the commiitto had recently passed a resolution drawing attention to the nature of films shown. Lt was felt that the censorship had neon largely ineffective. The pictures were permeated With sex interests. The censor’s task no doubt was difficult, but it was his duty to stand firm in the interests of public well-being. The Minister, after reference to Hie fact that the censorship was not yet filled, said he was sure the deputation intended to be helpful, and he asked that any member knowing of a picture beyond the bounds of propriety would call his attention tc it, and he would see it personally. Yesterday he went to see a picture and as a result it was called in, and cut about to such an extent that he did not think it would be worth showing now.

The Minister added: The great bulk of the films are American. We are trying to get exhibitors to make use of more British films. Every day we are gaining ground in that direction, and L can assure you that when we get the new cenSor appointed we will draw up stricter regulations in connection with the censorship of films. I am sure there will be a decided improvement in the pictures to be shown in the future? ’