Cinemas: Antisemitism
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, with reference to the written statement of 14 May 2026, HCWS16, on Tackling Antisemitism, whether the strengthening of guidance to local licensing authorities will include guidance on cinemas which ban the screening of Jewish films.
Answered by Ian Murray
The exhibition of a film is a licensable activity under the Licensing Act 2003, and must be complied with (when relevant) in any venue in which films are exhibited, including cinemas.
The government has published details on the steps being taken to combat antisemitism. This includes strengthening guidance to local licensing authorities on how existing licensing powers can be used to tackle events or venues promoting antisemitic behaviour or content. This action is set to be discussed in the upcoming engagement between my Department, the Home Office and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, alongside Jewish community and sector representatives, to determine next steps.
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