I move the First Reading of a Bill, the short title of which is: "Censorship of Films Bill, 1923." It might need some explanation as to why under existing conditions, we propose to proceed with this piece of legislation. Some two months ago a thoroughly representative deputation waited on me, and pressed for the introduction of a Bill of this kind. It will be remembered that the Dublin Corporation, in May of 1922. urged the establishment of a Board of Film Censors for all Ireland; Dáil Eireann in its 1920 Session pronounced in favour of that proposal. I am not amongst those who attribute all our present troubles to the Cinema. I do not know whether there was any cinema when Mr. de Valera was young, and I do not know whether he was much addicted to frequenting cinemas when he was not young, but it is beyond question that a censorship is needed and that local censorship seems to have failed. The local authorities were circularised by the Ministry of Local Government and there was a general, an unanimous feeling amongst local authorities that there should be a uniform censorship for the country.

This Bill will be found to be self-supporting and will not be a charge upon public funds, and there will be an appeal from the censor to an Honorary Board of five. I think it will be found to be a non-contentious measure and will go through quickly. In view of the considerable and growing demand for the measure I feel justified in asking the Dáil to consider it even in times like the present, and even in view of the pressure of business that there is.

I beg to second.

I venture to ask the Minister if he will obtain from one of our agents abroad a copy of the existing Bavarian law whereby children under 18 are absolutely prohibited from going to cinema theatres, except in the case of performances specially arranged for such young people. The effect of this law has been simply splendid, and, I think, it would be well worth while for the Minister to get a copy of that law, and see if it cannot be applied here.