HC Deb 24 June 1947 vol 439 cc205-7
52 and 53. Mr. Harold Macmillan

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (I) the total amount of net earnings in the United Kingdom of United States films during the calendar years 1944, 1945 and 1946; and what part of these sums has been remitted to the U.S.A. in each of these years;

(2) the sum of dollars obtained from the earnings of British films in the U.S.A. during the calendar years 1944, 1945 and 1946, and remitted to the United Kingdom after the deduction of dollar expenses.

Mr. Dalton

In each year net earnings of United States films in the United Kingdom, and remittances from them, were slightly over £17 million. Dollar remittances from the earnings of British films in the U.S.A. are still relatively very small.

Mr. Macmillan

Does not the right hon. Gentleman feel that this disproportion is very unsatisfactory, and is he satisfied that we really have frittered away £34 million worth of dollars in the last two years out of the precious American loan?

Mr. Dalton

It is not a satisfactory position and this matter has often been discussed in the House. We are, of course, seeking to stimulate the flow of dollars from British films in the United States in regard to which some progress, I am glad to think, has been made. I would not use the word "fritter" unconditionally with regard to the amusements of the people. The right hon. Gentleman may have noticed that a Resolution appears on the Order Paper today which has a bearing on this matter.

[That the Treasury shall have power by order to alter or add to section ten of the Finance Act, 1935, so as to secure that the value of ex-posed cinematograph film shall for the purpose of customs duties be determined in such manner as may be provided by the order..]

Mr. Macmillan

Is it really a fact that no figure can be given of the net remittances of dollar earnings of British films in the United States?

Mr. Dalton

I would rather not do so. I do not like to give figures unless we can stand, upon them and unless we can really depend on them. There are so many factors in this case, including the necessary expenses incurred on the other side, that I would not like to offer the House any figure for which I could not vouch at this stage as being accurate. I can say frankly that they are relatively small.

Mr. Blackburn

Will the Chancellor ensure that if substantial import cuts have to be made, American films will be the highest possible priority on the list and food the least priority?

Mr. Dalton

Loose talk about priorities gets us little distance. My hon. Friend also will have noticed the Resolution on the Order Paper.