Televising the Coronation
It seems probable that the objections raised in Press and Parliament will induce the Coronation Joint Committee and the Coronation Commission to reconsider the decision that the live televising of the ceremony in Westminster Abbey should be restricted to the processions west of the screen. Meanwhile it may be observed that throughout the public discussion, and before it, the real issue has been avoided. It -would indeed be unfitting if, in-the words of the Prime Minister, the ceremony were presented as if it were a theatrical per- formance. But a film is to be made of the entire ceremonial, and this, after such censoring and editing as are thought proper, will be seen by television viewers. So it is not a matter of principle, but Of expediency. The real question is this: are the religious rites of crowning, with their, concentrated solemnity, a proper subject for any sort of televised broadcast, whether live or recorded ? It .might have done the Coronation Commission and its advisers more credit if they had forbidden the filming as well as the live televising of the religious ceremony. Television is a notable invention, but the intrusive camera cannot be allowed to penetrate everywhere. Some privacy is worth preserving.
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