§ 5. Mr. E. Fletcherasked the President of the Board of Trade why the statutory duties of the National Film Finance Corporation were allowed to lapse.
§ Sir D. EcclesIt was not found possible to introduce at an earlier date the Cinematograph Films Bill, which extends the loan-making powers of the Corporation.
§ Mr. FletcherDoes not the President of the Board of Trade think that this is a very unfortunate example of the way in which the Government mismanaged the the Bill?
§ Sir D. EcclesI am sorry that the Bill has been late, but the hon. Gentleman has his remedy in his own hands by helping us to get Government business more quickly.
§ Mr. JayCan the President amplify his Answer of last week and tell us now whether loans are to be made by the Corporation free of interest during the period of delay, or is the Board of Trade somehow going to reimburse producers forced into paying high interest against their will?
§ Sir D. EcclesThe total amount of interest involved is about £ 1,200, and we are taking steps to see that this is waived.