§ 40. Mr. Keelingasked the President of the Board of Trade whether the Government have any plan for reducing dollar expenditure on films by stimulating British production and so diminishing the proportion of screen-time occupied by U.S. films; and, in particular, whether they will help the British industry to expand its output by quick release of studios, artists and technicians and by increased facilities for the manufacture of new equipment.
§ Sir S. CrippsYes, Sir. Not only is there a plan for re-expanding British film production as a means of reducing dollar expenditure on imported films, but substantial progress has been and is being made with its execution. All but about five per cent. of the requisitioned studio space has now been released; additional space which was never used before the war is becoming available; Class B releases for artists and film technicians already number about 40; the studios are being assisted to recruit their full complement of craft labour and most items of 1549 equipment which had formerly to be imported are now or soon will be in course of production here.
§ Mr. KeelingWhile I thank the right hon. and learned Gentleman for that reply, may I ask him whether he would consider giving even more specific information, either in the Press or in the Official Report, as this is a matter of great public interest?
§ Sir S. CrippsI will certainly consider that question.