asked the Minister of Information whether he is taking steps to revise the script of the series of plays on the life of Jesus, which are announced to be broadcast by the British Broadcasting Corporation from 21st December, in the children's hour, so as to avoid offence to Christian feeling?

No, Sir. It is not the function of my right hon. Friend to exercise jurisdiction over religious plays by the B.B.C., but he has shown the hon Member's Question to the B.B.C., and they have referred the plays once more to their Religious Committee which meets under the chairmanship of the Bishop of Winchester and contains representatives of the principal Churches in this country.

Are any steps being taken by the B.B.C. to prevent broadcasts, especially in the children's hour, that are offensive to Christian people?

No doubt the hon. Gentleman will appreciate that this is a delicate question of good taste. I think the committee referred to ought to be able to give competent advice on the subject.

Could not the Parliamentary Secretary, who is an expert on this subject, look through the manuscript?