§ 39. Sir Adrian Baillieasked the President of the Board of Trade whether any decision has yet been reached with regard to the maintenance of the quota provisions of the Cinematograph Films Act, 1938?
§ Mr. StanleyI am not yet able to announce what: arrangements will be made for the regulation of the cinematograph film industry to meet war-time conditions, but I can assure my hon. Friend that in considering this matter I shall keep fully in mind the importance of maintaining the production of British films during the war period. Meantime, the Act of 1938 is still in force and its provisions will not be modified without further consultation with the interests concerned.
§ Sir A. BaillieI take it that the answer is that it is the wish of the President of the Board of Trade that British film production shall continue during times of war? Is he aware of the fact that, as a result of the prevailing and still persisting uncertainty in the industry as to future decisions of the Board of Trade, British film production to-day is at a standstill; and does he appreciate the fact that the finance for retaining technicians will not be available unless —
§ Mr. Speaker rose —