§ 86. Mr. Shepherdasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is in a position to make a statement about the new company which is to be set up to continue the distribution functions hitherto discharged by the British Lion Film Corporation.
§ Mr. H. StraussThe composition of the board has not yet been settled as there are a number of complicated issues still to be resolved by the National Film Finance Corporation and the receiver. My right hon. Friend has, however,32W agreed with the corporation that in principle it is desirable that its chairman should also be chairman of the new company. The present chairman of the corporation, Mr. R. J. Stopford, while in agreement with this decision, has indicated that it would not be practicable for him personally to assume this additional burden. Sir John Keeling has accepted my right hon. Friend's invitation to become Chairman of the National Film Finance Corporation; he will also become chairman of the new company when formed. We are grateful to Sir John Keeling for undertaking these important duties which, at his request, will be without remuneration. Mr. Stopford, for whose past work as chairman the Government are most grateful, will remain on the board of the corporation.