26. Mrs. Whiteasked the President of the Board of Trade what is his present estimate of the yield of the cinematograph levy based on current attendance figures.
§ 37. Mr. H. Hyndasked the President of the Board of Trade how much he estimates will be produced during the next 12 months by the statutory levy now being imposed on cinemas; and whether he proposes to amend the regulations as a result of his recent interview with representatives of cinema proprietors.
§ The President of the Board of Trade (Sir David Eccles)If attendance figures continue well below last year's there may be some shortfall, but it is too early to revise the estimate of £3¾ million given for the year which began on 20th October, 1957. For the same reasons, it is too early to consider amending the regulations.
Mrs. WhiteWhile it may be too early to give any precise reply, will the right hon. Gentleman give an undertaking that if there is a really serious shortfall which becomes apparent during the first six months he will take steps, or at least review the situation, so that producers 593 for whom the statutory levy is being made will have some idea of where they stand?
§ Sir D. EcclesIf there is a serious and continuing short-fall, of course we shall look at the situation again.
§ Mr. H. HyndHas the right hon. Gentleman seen the statement by the Association of Independent Cinemas in which it is claimed that they will be about £1 million out of pocket as a result of this? Does he agree with that estimate, or can he give his own estimate?
§ Sir D. EcclesEstimates of cinema attendances are very difficult to make. I think we must wait and see what actually happens.