§ 44. Colonel J. R. H. Hutchisonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what dollar income was produced by British films sold or rented in the U.S.A. as a set-off to the expenditure of dollar credit for the hire of U.S. films to be shown in Britain.
§ Mr. DaltonI am glad to say that this income is increasing, though it is still substantially less than the cost of American films shown here. I should not like to commit myself to a firm figure at present.
§ Colonel HutchisonHas the Chancellor, in conjunction with the President of the Board of Trade, any plan for further increasing income from this source?
§ Mr. DaltonYes, Sir. My right hon. and learned Friend the President of the Board of Trade and I are in close touch on this matter, and we are, of course, very anxious that British films should have a full opportunity of being displayed, not only in this country, but abroad. We feel that the standard of British films is now rising, and that there is every reason to hope that that will come about in the near future.
Mr. E. P. SmithWhat is approximately the difference between the sterling income produced by United States films here and the dollar income produced by the sale of British films in the United States of America?
§ Mr. DaltonI would be glad to give an answer a little later, but it is a little early to do so yet, because, as the hon. Member will appreciate, there are gross takings and net takings after the deduction of certain expenses in the United States. I do not wish to conceal anything but, as I say, I should not like to commit myself to a firm figure now. Perhaps, later on.
might be able to give an estimate.