§ 1. Mr. Swinglerasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that a major British film production company has cut its production plans because of the recent drop in cinema attendances and the high rate of entertainments tax; and, if, in view of the fact that 70 per cent. of the firms exhibited in Great Britain are of foreign manufacture and of the need to expand film exports, he will take action to stimulate a higher level of film production.
§ The President of the Board of Trade (Sir David Eccles)The Rank Organisation has stated that it has had to postpone four proposed productions. British film production is helped by means of the screen quota, by the film production levy, and by loans from the National Film Finance Corporation.
§ Mr. SwinglerDoes not the Minister recognise the very serious situation which is coming about? Is he not aware that most of the production companies are now holding their hand awaiting the Budget decision on Entertainments Duty and that this will inevitably mean a drop in British film production which will make it difficult to maintain the quota?
§ Sir D. EcclesI am aware that there is some anxiety.