§ 55. Mr. T. Smithasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the recent purchase of the Amalgamated Studios at Elstree with a view to storage for Government purposes; and what he proposes to do, in view of the fact that this acquisition prevented them being acquired for furthering British film production?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Mr. Cross)I understand that the unequipped premises to which the hon. Member refers have been acquired by interests associated with the existing studios at Denham and Pine-wood, who have stated that they would be equipped for the production of films if the demand for studio space justified it. I assume, however, that those interests are satisfied that there is sufficient studio space available at present to meet probable demands, as I understand that the premises have been offered on lease to His Majesty's Office of Works, who are considering their use for official purposes.
§ Mr. SmithDid any consultation take place with the hon. Member's Department before these terms were arranged?
§ Mr. DayDoes the hon. Member agree that the dismantling of the studios will only hold up the further production of British films?
§ Mr. CrossAs I said in my answer, there is no reason to suppose as far as I am informed, that there is any sufficient demand for studio space to make it worth while to continue production.
Vice-Admiral TaylorWould not the production of British films be helped if the British quota were raised?