§ 26. Mr. Dayasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs which of the Dominions have agreed now to introduce legislation comparable and covering the Sections introduced in the Cinematograph Films Act, 1938?
The Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs (Lord Stanley)The Premier of New South Wales stated in March last that he was considering the amendment of the existing law in that State so as to provide for reciprocity with other British countries giving similar treatment to Australian films, but I am not aware that any Bill for this purpose has yet been introduced. I have no information as to the intention of Governments in the Dominions elsewhere. I would add that legislation of this nature is necessarily related to the conditions prevailing in the film industry in the country in which it is passed and that legislation similar to the Cinematograph Films Act, 1938, would not, therefore, necessarily be appropriate to the varying conditions in each of the several Dominions.
§ Mr. DayAre any communications passing between this Government and the Governments of the Dominions to see whether the Dominions intend to bring in legislation with regard to the working of this Act?
§ Mr. ManderWas it not suggested in the Moyne Report that negotiations should take place with the Dominions on the subject? Are not the Government going to do anything about this?
§ Captain CrookshankYes, Sir. In both cases they show an improvement over last year.
§ Following is the information: