Blasphemy at the Old Bailey 1977
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Blasphemy at the Old Bailey
In 1977 the Old Bailey saw the start of the first trial for blasphemy in this country for over half a century. Begun by Mary Whitehouse against the homosexual newspaper Gay News, it ended in a conviction, heavy fines and a suspended prison sentence for the editor. An appeal is pending. Was this prosecution an attack on free speech? Or was it a necessary defence of the principle that, even in a permissive society, some things must remain sacred? This dramatised documentary reconstructs the crucial moments of this historic trial, and explores the issues it raises. Peter France questions the people on both sides, including Mary Whitehouse and Denis Lemon, Editor, Gay News, about their actions and reactions during the case.
In 1977 the Old Bailey saw the start of the first trial for blasphemy in this country for over half a century. Begun by Mary Whitehouse against the homosexual newspaper Gay News, it ended in a conviction, heavy fines and a suspended prison sentence for the editor. An appeal is pending. Was this prosecution an attack on free speech? Or was it a necessary defence of the principle that, even in a permissive society, some things must remain sacred? This dramatised documentary reconstructs the crucial moments of this historic trial, and explores the issues it raises. Peter France questions the people on both sides, including Mary Whitehouse and Denis Lemon, Editor, Gay News, about their actions and reactions during the case.
Videos & Photos
All 0 Videos & 1 Photos
cast
Full Cast & Crew
... His Honour Judge King-Hamilton, QC
... John Mortimer, QC
... John Smyth
... G. Robertson
... Clerk of the Court
... Court Usher
Directors:
Release Date:
Sep 18, 1977
Run Time:
1hr 13`
MMPA Rating:
Original Language:
English
Status:
Released
Cast & Crew of
Blasphemy at the Old Bailey
Directors & Credit Writers
... Director
Cast
... His Honour Judge King-Hamilton, QC
... John Mortimer, QC
... John Smyth
... G. Robertson
... Clerk of the Court
... Court Usher
... Foreman of the Jury
PM
Peter Machin... Denis Lemon
PF
Peter France... Self
DL
Denis Lemon... Self
... Self
... Juror (uncredited)
Videos & Photos of
Blasphemy at the Old Bailey
Photos ( 1 )