§ 61. Captain Gammansasked the President of the Board of Trade in what Act or Regulation there is a definition of what constitutes a British film; and what are the necessary qualifications.
§ Mr. DaltonThese qualifications are set out in Section 25 of the Cinematograph Films Act, 1938, and in two subsequent Orders in Council. I am sending my hon. and gallant Friend copies of the Act and of these two Orders.
§ 63. Major Petherickasked the President of the Board of Trade when he proposes to revise the Act relating to British film production; and whether he proposes shortly to set up a committee to reconsider the position upon the lines of the Moyne Committee of 1936.
§ Mr. DaltonThe Cinematograph Films Act, 1938, does not expire until 1948. The answer to the second part of the Question is, "No, Sir."
§ Major PetherickIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is some alarm in the country lest control of the British film industry should ultimately pass overseas? Will the Government take any action that seems suitable to them to prevent that happening?
§ Mr. DaltonYes, Sir, I am carefully watching the position. But, in view of the period the present Act has still to run, it is premature to set up a Committee at the moment.