§ 6. Mr. Swinglerasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is now in a position to make a statement on the discussions in the film industry about the future of the British Film Production Fund.
§ Mr. H. StraussNo, Sir.
§ Mr. SwinglerWhen will the hon. and learned Gentleman be able to make a statement? Is he aware that film production must be planned a long way ahead and that several producers have said that 1167 production will drop early next year unless some definite announcement is made about financial matters?
§ Mr. StraussIf the hon. Gentleman will refer to the answer which I gave him on 14th October, he will see that we are watching the progress of the discussions and we are confident that all sections of the industry realise the importance of bringing them to a successful conclusion. I do not believe it would be helpful to the purpose which I am sure the hon. Gentleman has in mind if the Board of Trade were to intervene now or if I were to add to my statement.