HC Deb 25 March 1930 vol 237 cc248-9
Mr. DAY

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any representations have been made to him, either by the associations or societies connected with the cinematograph industry or by private exhibitors, asking that Part I of the Cinematograph Films Act, 1927, should be amended, in view of the inability of the exhibitors to procure sufficient good British films to comply with the requirements of the Act?

Mr. W. GRAHAM

I have just received a resolution on this subject from the Cinematograph Exhibitors' Association which is under consideration.

Mr. DAY

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, if the Act is allowed to remain as at present, it will bring a great amount of ruin to the British cinematograph industry, and cause still more unemployment?

Mr. GRAHAM

I know there are matters in that Act which are in dispute, and I have always indicated that in regard to past legislation. I shall be most willing to consider any matter arising under the Act.

Mr. DAY

Does that also concern cinematograph exhibitors' quotas?

Mr. GRAHAM

It is on the quota that this resolution has been based.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Could we not repeal the whole Act?

Mr. GRAHAM

I think the Government have already enough on hand for the moment.