§ 70. Mr. Wyattasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will use his powers to requisition the British National Studios which are now not in use.
§ Mr. H. WilsonNo.
§ Mr. WyattWould not my right hon. Friend agree that it is wrong to let this studio fall into the hands of either American or British companies who will only produce three films a year, whereas if the studio were left to independent producers, they could produce at least six films a year?
§ Mr. WilsonThis studio is not going to fall into the hands of American producers. Merely to requisition the studio would not of itself get the tenants ready and willing to make films at the rate we want to see. Negotiations are now proceeding for the leasing of this studio and I hope this is going to be settled in the course of the next few days.
§ Mr. WyattIf I tell my right hon. Friend the names of seven film producers who are prepared to take over this studio at a low rental will he reconsider his decision?
§ Mr. WilsonNo, Sir.