HC Deb 02 December 1925 vol 188 cc2221-2
52. Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that legislation has recently been passed in Australia making it compulsory for cinema exhibitors to show a certain percentage of British films in their programmes; and whether it is the intention of the Government to pass similar legislation in Great Britain, having regard to the great importance of stimulating the production of British films?

Mr. A. M. SAMUEL (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)

I have been asked to reply. My attention has been called to proposals of this kind in Australia. The possibility of taking action to increase the number of British films shown in this country is under consideration, but I am not at present in a position to make any statement.

Sir W. DAVISON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that an entirely false impression of British life and manners is given by the American films which are shown at present? Is it not very desirable that we should have British life and manners represented by British films?

Mr. SAMUEL

Well, I was taking that into consideration, but, again, I would point out that the hon. Gentleman is inaccurate in stating as a fact that legislation has recently been passed in Australia. I made inquiries to-day at the Dominions Office, and I find that the Bill has not yet passed the Legislative Assembly.

Colonel DAY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the cinematograph exhibitors themselves are very much against any such restriction being placed upon them?

Captain ARTHUR EVANS

In view of the fact that the present supply of British films is not sufficient, either in quantity or quality, to allow of a compulsory percentage, will the hon. Gentleman in the interests of the picture-going public take that fact into consideration if he contemplates legislation?

Mr. SAMUEL

Yes, Sir, I will. As regards the statement of the hon. Member for Southwark Central (Colonel Day) I agree that all the managers of the cinematograph are not in agreement as to what should be done. There is great diversity of opinion.

Colonel DAY

Might I point out to the hon. Gentleman the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department—

HON. MEMBERS

Order, order!

Mr. SPEAKER

Pointing out should be done in private.