HC Deb 05 March 1929 vol 226 cc179-80
12. Sir WILLIAM WAYLAND

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is prepared to investigate the methods employed in this country by American manufacturers of talking picture apparatus; and whether, if he finds the development of the British talking picture industry is being seriously retarded by the action of the American manufacturers, he will be prepared to consider further legislation to prevent the objects of the Cinematograph Films Act from being defeated?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

As at present advised I do not think there is any occasion for Government intervention.

Mr. DAY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in some of these films the greater part is taken up by the talking instead of the film matter, and that consequently the producers will get behind that portion of the Films Act which refers to long films?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I am not sure that I follow the question. I think the Advisory Committee have considered that on one occasion, and I am told that there has really been no complaint either from exhibitors or producers in this country up to the present time.

Mr. DAY

Will the right hon. Gentleman bring the matter to the notice of the Advisory Committee, so that there may be no evasion of the Act in future films?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I have not the least intention of allowing any evasion of the Act. If the hon. Gentleman can show me that there is any evasion either taking place or contemplated, I shall be very glad to bring that to the notice of the proper authorities, advisory or otherwise.

Mr. SANDEMAN

Do the talking films come under the same Act?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I would like notice of that question. If a long film is a long film, it comes under the Act.

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