HC Deb 27 October 1953 vol 518 c2610
39. Mr. Swingler

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will introduce legislation to maintain the British Film Production Fund.

Mr. H. Strauss

Unless an agreed scheme for the continuation of the Fund is secured by the end of this month, my right hon. Friend will seek statutory powers. The four film trade associations were so informed on the 6th October, 1953. My right hon. Friend understands that a voluntary scheme prepared within the industry is now acceptable to three of these associations and that the fourth are awaiting the result of a reference to their members.

Mr. Swingler

Has the attention of the hon. and learned Gentleman been drawn to a resolution of the General Council of the Cinematograph Exhibitors' Association, in which it is stated that, because of the Government's unsympathetic attitude towards the reduction of the Entertainments Duty, there is unwillingness to make voluntary agreements, and will he comment on this fact, which is preventing a voluntary agreement in the trade?

Mr. Strauss

Not in answer to this Question. The answer to the Question was contained quite clearly in the first sentence of my answer: Unless an agreed scheme … is secured by the end of this month, my right hon. Friend will seek statutory powers.