HC Deb 02 February 1937 vol 319 cc1411-2
58. Mr. Day

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury the number of cinematograph films that have been made during the previous 12 months, or are being made at the present time for commercial purposes, in which Government property was or is being used; and will he give particulars of what payment has been made to the Government for the use thereof?

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Lieut.-Colonel Colville)

I am about to send the hon. Member the information for which he asked in his question on a similar matter on 10th December last; I will add to it such information as can properly be given in reply to his present question.

Mr. Day

Is the last part of the question also dealt with in that answer?

Lieut.-Colonel Colville

I have tried to deal with the whole question if possible.

59. Mr. Hall-Caine

asked the President of the Board of Trade when it is intended to introduce legislation to implement the findings of the Moyne Committee on the cinematograph industry in this country; and whether he can give an assurance that such legislation will be of a nature that will lead to the better protection of the British film industry?

Dr. Burgin

I have nothing to add to the answer which I gave to my hon. Friend on 8th December last.

Mr. Hall-Caine

Does my hon. Friend realise that this industry is in a very serious position, and will he give it notice that unless they come to some decision shortly the Government will take action on their own account?

Dr. Burgin

I think that legislation in connection with this industry must as far as possible be canvassed with the industry first. I am awaiting replies from within the industry, and I propose to give the industry a full opportunity of considering the way in which it ought to be governed.

Mr. Hall-Caine

Will my hon. Friend ask them to hurry up? Otherwise there will be no industry left.

Mr. Day

Does the hon. Gentleman intend to give effect to the report brought in by this Committee, or is he having it pigeon-holed as many other reports have been in the past?

60. Mr. Hall-Caine

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the fact that British films do not get a reasonable chance in the United States; and whether, in view of the large revenue received by the United States film producers in respect of exhibiting in this country, he can take steps to ensure a greater measure of reciprocity?

Dr. Burgin

My hon. Friend's suggestion will be borne in mind.