Blasphemy at the Old Bailey
1977 · 73 min
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.
- Director
- Hugh David
- Released
- September 18, 1977
- Language
- English
Cast
Donald Eccles
His Honour Judge King-Hamilton, QC
Norman Rodway
John Mortimer, QC
Terrence Hardiman
John Smyth
Gareth Thomas
G. Robertson
Norman Rutherford
Clerk of the Court
John Beardmore
Court Usher
Chris Sanders
Foreman of the Jury
Peter Machin
Denis Lemon
Peter France
Self
Denis Lemon
Self
Mary Whitehouse
Self
Bella Emberg
Juror (uncredited)
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