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Topical Budget 230-1: Electioneering from an Aeroplane (1916)
 

Synopsis

Warning: screenonline full synopses contain 'spoilers' which give away key plot points. Don't read on if you don't want to know the ending!

[Flashed title] "ELECTIONEERING FROM AN AEROPLANE. Mr Pemberton-Billing, airman candidate for Whitechapel uses a novel 'platform' to address the electors of Mile End". Medium shot of two men looking over a wheeled structure made to resemble an aeroplane. Along its side, and on the tail-fin, are the words 'Vote for Pemberton-Billing'. Medium shot from behind the aeroplane with Pemberton-Billing on board. People crowd around the aeroplane. Men attach wings to the structure and two young boys take the opportunity to stare into the camera and smile. Front view of the aeroplane with Pemberton-Billing holding a baby. Pemberton-Billing orating to the crowd from the aeroplane. Medium close shot of Pemberton-Billing, dressed in a double breasted overcoat and wearing a synthetic flower - he stands before a sign that reads 'Airman'. He mugs deafness and lets out a fierce laugh. He drags deeply on a cigarette.

Notes: Pemberton-Billing served as an independent MP for East Herts., 1916-21; he was unsuccessful at Whitechapel and had stood on a strong Air Policy.