§ 3.5 p.m.
§ LORD LLEWELLINMy Lords, I beg to ask His Majesty's Government the Question of which I have given them private Notice—namely, whether they have any statement to make on the cinematograph films quota.
§ LORD LUCAS OF CHILWORTHMy Lords, an order has been made by the Board of Trade which provides for a reduction in the present exhibitors' quota for British first-feature films from 45 to 40 per cent., with effect from October 1 next. As it must receive the approval of Parliament before April 1, your Lordships' House will be asked to consider the Report of the Special Orders Committee, and to approve the necessary affirmative Resolution on Thursday next, March 31.
§ LORD LLEWELLINMy Lords, I should like to ask the noble Lord why April 1 is such an important date in this context.
§ LORD LUCAS OF CHILWORTHMy Lords, in order to comply with the requirements of the Act, the order has to be made at least six months before the beginning of the new quota period on October 1, 1949.