British Film Institute

HC Deb 09 December 1985 vol 88 cc620-1

32. Mr. Dormand

asked the Minister for the Arts whether he will increase the grant to the British Film Institute; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Luce

I hope to announce the British Film Institute's grant shortly, along with the rest of my arts budget for 1986–87.

Mr. Dormand

Is the grant to be reduced? Is the Minister aware that if the present policy is pursued, some of the excellent films that are now being made with the help of BFI money will be seriously threatened, especially as the Eadie levy will not be available to the institute next year? Does the hon. Gentleman accept that the films that are being made have a commercial value in addition to their artistic value? Surely that should appeal to a Tory Government. When will he take more interest in this sector of the film industry?

Mr. Luce

I can assure the hon. Gentleman that I am taking an interest in this sector of the industry. I visited the institute last week to learn about its work. The institute is one of the largest recipients of British grants and I believe that it will continue to be so. It has an important role to play. I have noted that prominent in its activities are those in the Tyneside region.

Mr. Freud

As the season for bids to the Treasury is about to commence, will the Minister press the cause for a better fiscal structure for the film industry with his right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer?

Mr. Luce

There is a division of responsibility in the film industry. My right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry has responsibilities for it as well. However, I note what the hon. Gentleman says.