§ 94. Captain Pluggeasked the Minister of Information whether he is aware that there is much unemployment in the film industry at the present time; how many propaganda films are being now made with Government assistance and support; and whether, in view of the need for propaganda films, he will consider increasing these?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information (Mr. Harold Nicolson)The answer to the first part of the Question is in the affirmative. Before the recent intensification of hostilities, the Ministry of Information had commissioned 60 films of various kinds and were helping a number of film production companies by the grant of facilities and official approval. Some of the films commissioned were inappropriate to the present crisis and have been temporarily abandoned, but it is hoped that others of a more suitable character will take their 664 place. Further plans for dealing with the present situation are now under consideration.