§ 19. Mr. Swinglerasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is satisfied that the current level of British film production is sufficient to maintain the quotas and provide for an expanding volume of exports; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir D. EcclesYes, Sir. In spite of difficulties caused by the fall in cinema attendances, the level of British film production is being maintained. This level should be sufficient to fill the screen quotas, and to provide for some increase in exports.
§ Mr. SwinglerHow does the President of the Board of Trade reconcile that Answer with recent announcements of cuts in production by major production companies? Is not he aware that the falling receipts of the levy funds will jeopardise any expansion of production in the future, and should not he now conceive some new policy to stimulate production?
§ Sir D. EcclesThe hon. Member asked about the current level, and the current level is the same as last year's. The second part of his supplementary question referred to future policy. I think that that is another question.