HC Deb 12 March 1958 vol 584 cc404-5
16 and 17. Sir L. Plummer

asked the Postmaster-General (1) what notice he has given to the Independent Television Authority under Section 9 (2) of the Television Act, 1954, regarding transmissions between the hours of 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. of cinematograph films originally produced for showing in cinemas, and the proportion of such films which must be of British origin;

(2) what notice he has given to the British Broadcasting Corporation under Section 15 (4) of the Licence and Agreement regarding transmissions between the hours of 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. of cinematograph films originally produced for showing in cinemas, and the proportion of such films which must be of British origin.

The Postmaster-General (Mr. Ernest Marples)

None, Sir.

Sir L. Plummer

The Minister is aware of the difficult conditions now existing in the British film industry, so will he not now consider discussing with both of the bodies the advisability of encouraging British films on television at the expense of old American films with a view to improving the conditions in the British film industry?

Mr. Marples

I do not think that cinema films which are shown on television are necessarily the only competition which the cinema has to face. Other items on television, such as boxing and perhaps Soccer, are a greater attraction to people, and I think the public should have a free choice of their own.

Mr. C. R. Hobson

In view of the shortage of dollars, does not the right hon. Gentleman think that it is time a limit was put on the number of American films shown by both the B.B.C. and I.T.A.? Cannot he use his powers to stop this?

Mr. Marples

The hon. Gentleman should remember that this is a two-way traffic. Not only are the American films for which we pay dollars shown here, but the Americans show British films for which they pay dollars, and any action we might take of a drastic nature here might provoke action which might, on balance, prove adverse to us.

Mr. Rankin

Will the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind that there is a probable run-down of British film production due to the situation which is developing on the exhibiting side? Would not this act as a stimulant to British film production?

Mr. Marples

I am not responsible for the cinema industry. I am responsible for the operation of the Television Act. If the hon. Member has any question in mind on the cinema industry, it should be put down to the President of the Board of Trade