HC Deb 12 May 1953 vol 515 cc1033-4
11. Mr. Swingler

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the need for long-term planning of film production and the expiry of the existing Eady levy in August, 1954, he will take special steps to prevent a fall in British film production, pending a decision on the future of the levy.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

As the hon. Member is aware, the Government have already decided that support for British film production of the kind provided by the British Film Production Fund should continue after August, 1954. So far as I am aware, film producers have found that decision a sufficient basis on which to continue their production plannings, and there is no sign of any fall in British film production.

Mr. Swingler

But is not the Minister aware that his Parliamentary Secretary indicated last week that he does not contemplate a decision until the next Parliamentary Session, and as no one can safely predict what Parliament will eventually approve, is not this leaving the industry in a state of uncertainty until the last moment when the Eady scheme expires?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I think that the hon. Gentleman is spreading wholly unnecessary gloom in the film industry. The statement I made gave every assurance that the basis of this fund would in principle go on and, on that assurance, the producers are continuing with production. I do not think that these continual attempts to spread uncertainty really help.

Mr. Swingler

But does not the Minister realise that he cannot give that assurance? If it requires legislation, it is a question of what Parliament will approve, and as producers cannot be certain what the legislation will be when it has gone through Parliament, would it not be better to state a definite date when the right hon. Gentleman will introduce legislation, or when the voluntary negotiations must terminate?

Mr. Thorneycroft

The producers seem to be showing every confidence in the type of legislation that will go through Parliament. They do not seem to have any doubt about it, and they are satisfied that these assurances will enable them to go on producing.