§ 4. Captain P. MACDONALDasked the President of the Board of Trade how many British passenger vessels are now fitted with cinema apparatus; whether he is aware that at the present time no British films are ever shown on such British passenger vessels; and whether he will take the necessary steps to provide for a greater proportion of British films being shown on British vessels?
§ 5. Dr. MORRIS-JONESasked the President of the Board of Trade, whether the cinematograph films shown on British Transatlantic liners are of British or American make; and, if of both, in what proportions are the two shown?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI have no information as to either the number of British passenger vessels that are fitted with cinema apparatus or the proportions in which they show British and American films. I would, however, refer the hon. Members to the reply I gave on this subject on 2nd March.
§ Captain MACDONALDIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are very few, if any, British films shown on British ships crossing the Atlantic, and will he make inquiries and see if he cannot influence British shipowners to use British films?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI have no doubt they will be very glad to do so, and I am informed that there are some British films shown on board British ships.
§ Mr. HOLFORD KNIGHTWill the right hon. Gentleman look into the point as to whether if these ships are British territory the statutory condition as to the quota should be satisfied?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThey spend most of their time outside the three-miles limit.