§ 35. Mr. Rankinasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will take steps to abolish the British Film Production Levy and in its stead establish a direct subsidy from the Treasury.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithI have nothing to add to the reply which my right hon. Friend gave to the hon. Member for Flint, East (Mrs. White) on 28th June last.
§ Mr. RankinIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that legislation governing the statutory contribution made through the Film Finance Corporation for film production will soon be coming to an end, 1029 and what are the prospects of carrying on that Fund in some way or other? Is he further aware that, as a result of recent legislation, the contribution under the Eady Plan may possibly diminish—though I hope not—and would he say what plans he has to meet that contingency should it arise?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithThe current voluntary agreement in regard to the Fund does not end until 23rd October, 1957, and, of course, as the hon. Gentleman knows, the future of the Fund, together with various other matters regarding the film industry, is at present under consideration.