HC Deb 23 June 1997 vol 296 c373W
13. Barbara Follett

To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what measures he proposes to encourage Britain's creative industries with particular reference to film. [3096]

Mr. Chris Smith

My Department recently announced the setting up of a Film Policy Review Group whose task will be to formulate an agenda for action for the film industry and for the Government's support to it. It will be the aim of the group to double the audience for British films and to help the film industry to achieve its full creative and economic potential.

More broadly, the Government will take action to help the creative industries to flourish, thereby creating new jobs and new opportunities in the domestic market, boosting exports, and encouraging tourism and inward investment.

24. Dr. Kumar

To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what plans he has to assist the British film industry. [3109]

Mr. Tom Clarke

My Department recently announced the setting up of a Film Policy Review Group whose task will be to formulate an agenda for action for the film industry and for the Government's support to it. It will be the aim of the group to double the audience for British films and to help the film industry to achieve its full creative and economic potential.

The Group will be co-chaired by myself and Stewart Till of PolyGram Filmed Entertainment. The members all have a real working knowledge of what it takes to achieve artistic and commercial success, both in Britain and abroad.