§ 12. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the First Lord of the Admiralty what arrangements have been made for the taking of cinematograph pictures to be used for public exhibition on board His Majesty's ships; to how many firms has this privilege been given; whether any system of payment, rent, or royalties has been arranged for this privilege; and what are the sums involved?
The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Davidson)Arrangements have been made on various occasions during the last six years for the filming of certain events of naval and historical interest, such as the tours of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales in His Majesty's ships "Renown'' and "Repulse," and the Empire cruise, subject to some payment or share of profits being made by the firm concerned. Facilities have also been afforded by the Admiralty on application for the production of certain other films of naval interest. When this business was first proposed it was found very difficult to obtain tenders from producers, but since certain films have achieved success more firms appear anxious to concern themselves with the production of this type of film.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWill the hon. Gentleman answer the question on the Paper, as to how many firms have had this privilege given them at the present moment?
Mr. DAVIDSONIf the hon. and gallant Member will read my answer, he will see that these matters are dealt with therein.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYI really want an answer to a question which has been on the Paper for weeks. We are told that some share of the profits has been paid. What amount has been received?
Mr. DAVIDSONThe hon. and gallant Member must realise, I think, that all matters connected with contract prices are treated as confidential.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYI really must protest. I really think that this is a case of refusing information, and I am entitled to ask—
§ Colonel DAYCan the hon. Gentleman say whether all the Admiralty contracts have to be put before the technical adviser before they are accepted?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAWhat arrangement is made for the disposal of the foreign rights?
§ Mr. PENNYIs it not a fact that some firms have, for educational purposes, taken a considerable monetary risk in producing these films which other firms would not take until they saw they were a success?