41. Mrs. Whiteasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement on the future of the British Film Production Fund.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftI am not yet in a position to make a statement on future film policy, but when I do I would expect that statement to cover the position of the British Film Production Fund.
Mrs. WhiteIs the President of the Board of Trade not aware that there is very considerable disquiet, particularly among our film producers, and could he not now say that if, in October, 1957—when the present agreement comes to an end—no voluntary arrangements can then be made, he will introduce a statutory agreement adequate for the purpose?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftNo, I prefer not to make a statement in bits. I would rather take advice and make it as a whole.
§ tions of imports into the United Kingdom in 1955 coming from the British Commonwealth, the sterling area excluding the British Commonwealth, the non-sterling area excluding the dollar countries, and from dollar countries; and the proportions of United Kingdom exports to the above areas in the same period and any material adjustment to these figures due to re-export.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftAs the Answer contains a number of figures I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Following is the Answer:
Mr. Glenvil HallMay we expect a statement from the right hon. Gentleman before the House rises at the end of next month?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftAs I am dependent to some extent on advice which is given to me by the film industry, I should not like to commit myself as to a date.