§ 8 and 9. Mr. McENTEEasked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether he is aware of widespread discontent among cinematograph film exhibitors at the quality of certain British films provided under the quota; and, seeing that the dissatisfaction caused by these productions amongst members of the public is likely to do serious harm to the better class of British pictures, will he look into the matter;
(2) whether he is aware of the criticism made against foreign importers who are manufacturing cheap British films merely to fulfil the letter of the Films Act, and that at a recent national conference of the Cinematograph Exhibitors Association of Great Britain and Ireland, held at Blackpool, it was stated that the law is being evaded by the production of worthless British pictures which exhibitors declare it is impossible to show to the public; and will he call for a report on the matter and make it available to Members of this House.
§ Mr. RUNCIMANMy attention has been drawn to the discussion on the quality of British cinematograph films 1731 which took place at the Conference to which the hon. Member refers; and if any section of the cinematograph film industry wishes to make representations to me on the subject I shall be pleased to consider them. I should point out that in the last quota year, more than twice the statutory quota of British films was exhibited.