British Film Production Fund

HC Deb 22 November 1956 vol 560 c1907

4. Mr. Swingler

asked the President of the Board of Trade his estimate of the annual loss of revenue to the British Film Production Fund resulting from the closure of cinemas since 1st April this year.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

No such estimate can be made. It cannot be assumed that, when a cinema closes, its patrons cease to visit cinemas, or that the total revenue from cinema-going must fall.

Mr. Swingler

But has the right hon. Gentleman any evidence to the effect that the Production Fund has not lost from the substantial closing of cinemas this year? Is not any loss to the Production Fund a serious matter in view of the fact that it is generally regarded as being too small already? Should not the right hon. Gentleman have some consultation with the trade about this?

Mr. Thorneycroft

All I am saying is that it is quite impossible to make an estimate upon the basis that the hon. Gentleman suggests.