§ 19. Sir J. Henderson-Stewartasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made by the Films of Scotland Committee, appointed by him in 1955 to promote, stimulate and encourage the production and circulation of Scottish films of national interest.
§ Mr. N. MacphersonSince the Films of Scotland Committee was appointed in 1955 by the Scottish Council (Development and Industry) in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State's predecessor, they have sponsored the making of 16 films about Scottish subjects and 10 more are either in production or under consideration. Most of the completed films have already received widespread distribution throughout the world.
Advice has also been given to companies producing feature films in Scotland.
§ Sir J. Henderson-StewartWould not my hon. Friend agree that this is a highly commendable operation and that this body is doing work which may at least become of enormous importance to Scotland and our work overseas? Is he quite satisfied that everything possible is being done to support this enterprise?
§ Mr. MacphersonI should like to take this opportunity of congratulating the Committee on its work, and I agree with what my hon. Friend has said on the subject. The Committee receives help from the Central Office of Information, which has been a joint sponsor of some of the Committee's films and has purchased the overseas distribution rights of others, so that assistance is being given in that way.