The debate on Sunday theatres and music-halls was interest- ing,
but often irrelevant. Mr. Magnay nearly ruined his case by over-statement; it was left to Mr. James Griffiths to make the best speech in support of the Nonconformist conscience, though Mr. Crowder, speaking as an ex-welfare Army officer, said much in a few words. Mr. Alan Herbert gave a more realist picture of the modern Sunday, and quoted the example of theatrical items which were given by the B.B.C. throughout the Sabbath day. No speech rose to any height of oratory because the issue was confused. Mr. Fred Watkins, a railway clerk, made a notable defence of the living theatre. Few people seemed to realise that the legitimate theatre is dying, owing to the high rents charged and the deadly competition of the cinema. Party lines were completely obliterated, though Liberals and Welsh members combined to make a strong force in defence of the so-called traditional Sunday. Mr. Herbert Morrison made a common-sense case for the Government, but he failed to convince enough members that his case was worthy of support. The whole position remains unsatisfactory. Does the vote of the House of Commons represent the view of the country? I should like to see a referendum on the whole issue.
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