HC Deb 30 July 1936 vol 315 cc1726-7
75. Mr. SORENSEN

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the danger to the British film industry by the Schenck-Ostrer combination, he is yet in a position to state what steps will be taken to deal with the situation which has arisen as regarding the Cinematograph Films Act, 1927?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am not in a position to add anything to my recent replies on this subject.

Mr. SORENSEN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the considerable anxiety existing among technicians and operators regarding the possible effect of this combination on their circumstances?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

That fact has already been brought to my notice.

Mr. SORENSEN

Does the right hon. Gentleman propose to take any action in the matter?

Mr. DAY

Has the right hon. Gentleman now considered the previous question which I asked him, whether he has asked the committee which is investigating the amendment of the Cinematograph Films Act to consider this matter?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I said in my answer that the answer given on 27th July by the Minister for Mines holds good.