HC Deb 11 December 1950 vol 482 cc816-7
63. Mr. Birch

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs for what purpose the Central Office of Information film, "Come Saturday," describing how the English spend their week-ends, was made; and what was the cost.

Mr. Ernest Davies

This film was commissioned in 1947 at the request of the Foreign Office. It was intended to show that the British are not an exclusively dour people and do not take their pleasures sadly. The cost of production was £14,634.

Mr. Birch

Cannot the hon. Gentleman think of better ways of spending over £14,500? In any case would it not be more edifying to have a film on how the Welsh spend their week-ends?

Mr. Davies

This film did not exclude the Welsh, but it did concentrate on those who enjoy their week-ends more.

Mr. Renton

Did the week-end activities described in the film include the making, by Members of the Government, of irresponsible and fatuous speeches?

Sir W. Wakefield

Can the Minister say whether any revenue has been obtained from the showing of this film, to offset its cost?

Mr. Davies

Yes, Sir. Revenue has been obtained from the distribution of this film both on a commercial basis and otherwise. [HON. MEMBERS: "How much?"] It amounts to roughly £3,000.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Has my hon. Friend received any reports from our representatives abroad as to the effect of this film on the respective populations to whom it was shown?