§ 66. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether the position of technical adviser on cinematography is a, whole-time position and paid as such; and whether all arrangements for the taking of films where Government assistance and/or facilities are required are made by the technical adviser with the private companies concerned?
§ Mr. McNEILLThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affimative. As regards the second part, arrangements such as are described would normally be made either on the advice, or by the agency, of this officer.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYBut in practice are they made through the agency of this officer? Is this officer at the present time doing the whole thing in connection with all the Departments?
§ Mr. McNEILLI do not think there have been sufficient transactions of this kind to say there is a normal practice established.
§ Colonel DAYWill the right hon. Gentleman say that applications to any Government Department will have to go to this officer?
§ Mr. McNEILLNo, Sir, I would not like to say that.
§ Captain GARRO-JONESIn view of the obviously unsatisfactory position, is it possible for the right hon. Gentleman to promise the House some improvement?
§ Mr. McNEILLI cannot possibly say what may be obvious to the hon. and gallant Gentleman.