§ 5. Mr. Shepherdasked the President of the Board of Trade the net earnings of British films in overseas markets in each of the last three available years.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftFor 1950, the first year for which figures are available, the net amount payable to British producers out of the earnings of British films in overseas markets was about £2¼ million. Figures for 1951 are not yet available.
§ Mr. ShepherdIn view of the fact that this amount is almost the same as the earnings in this country, does not my right hon. Friend think it constitutes a refutation of those who say that the industry is not deserving of assistance, especially as this export is a net export demanding practically no imports in return?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftI think it is a valuable contribution towards solving our problems.
§ 6. Mr. Shepherdasked the President of the Board of Trade how many British films have received major circuit bookings in the United States of America during each of the last three years.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftI assume that by the term "major circuit bookings in the United States" my hon. Friend has in mind the circuits which have been associated with the major American producing companies. I am informed that, excluding British films made in this country by the United Kingdom subsidiaries of American film companies, 10 British films have had major circuit bookings in the last three years, two in 1949, two in 1950 and six in 1951.
§ Mr. ShepherdDoes it not appear to my right hon. Friend that these figures are rather disappointing, in view of the assurances given in 1948? When he has a further discussion on this matter, later in the year, will he undertake to draw the attention of the Americans to this situation?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftI certainly do find the figure disappointing, and anything I can do to enable a larger number to be shown I shall do.