Blasphemy at the Old Bailey
1977 · Hugh David · 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.
Donald EcclesHis Honour Judge King-Hamilton, QC
Norman RodwayJohn Mortimer, QC
Terrence HardimanJohn Smyth
Gareth ThomasG. RobertsonNorman RutherfordClerk of the CourtJohn BeardmoreCourt UsherChris SandersForeman of the JuryPeter MachinDenis LemonPeter FranceSelfDenis LemonSelfMary WhitehouseSelf
Bella EmbergJuror (uncredited)
Norman RodwayJohn Mortimer, QCTerrence HardimanJohn SmythGareth ThomasG. RobertsonNorman RutherfordClerk of the CourtJohn BeardmoreCourt UsherChris SandersForeman of the JuryPeter MachinDenis LemonPeter FranceSelfDenis LemonSelfMary WhitehouseSelfBella EmbergJuror (uncredited)
