HC Deb 01 November 1956 vol 558 c1600
27. Mr. Hunter

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many cinemas have closed in Great Britain this year, at the latest convenient date.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

One hundred and forty-two cinemas have been closed this year up to 31st October.

Mr. Hunter

Is the Minister aware that reports have been published that the Rank Organisation is closing down a further 79 cinemas, Associated British Cinemas are closing down 30, and the independents nearly a hundred? Will he, at an early date, make a statement on Government policy towards the cinema industry.

Mr. Thorneycroft

I have recently made a statement on Government policy in regard to the cinema industry.