EFFECTIVE and sensible censorship of obscene and violent films by local authorities would be a more forward-looking way of atsproaching the crime problem than demanding heavier penalties for young offenders a Catholic journalist and London borough councillor told a public meeting in Worthing, Sussex.
"Today's young people are affected by the films that are put on for their entertainment, and it is utterly absurd to say that this is not so," Miss Joanna Nash told a meeting organised by the Worthing branch of the Listener sat et ni oe rnea Al ssoVcieiatwioenrs and
"Over the last few years there has been a dramatic and sustained increase in the number of films showing sex and violence — in fact it is now almost impossible to find a lively and enjoyable film which is really suitable for teenagers to see.
Youngsters go to sec whatever films are available — and their attitudes and actions reflect the values they are given by these films and the other media."
Christian leaders, said Miss Nash, should be among those who were speaking out about the need to control obscene and degrading entertainment.
"It is no use moaning about today's young people — Christians should be prepared to stand firm on their moral convictions, and speak out against evil wherever they see
she saidr.• "Young people are beginning to reje.ct the so-called permissive society, because they know it to be a society that exploits people and causes cruel ty.
now"Bruetspocnhdu rtcoh lthi se adfeee irisng,maunsdt show solidarity with the young by offering them real protection against the exploiters — the makers of pornographic films, the abortionists, and the contraceptive manufacturers whose only aim is to make. profits."
A massive voluntary movement to restrict personal food consumption in order to help the hungry is called for in a new leaflet from the Farm and Food Society. The society emphasises above all the need to cut down on animal protein.