§ Mr. Masonasked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development if his attention has been drawn to the monopoly position developing in this country which is resulting in the almost total exclusion of the showing of British films on the British cinema network, and to the effect this is having upon the British film industry and employment therein; what action he proposes to take to ensure that a larger percentage of British films will be shown on the British cinema. network; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. D. PriceThe evidence is that the screen quota requiring that 30 per cent, of the films shown by an exhibitor as first features shall be British, is currently being substantially exceeded.
§ Mr. Swinglerasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the complaints of independent film producers about the difficulties and delays in getting releases for their films;and if he will consider raising the British quota to assist them to maintain the flow of production and exhibition of British films.
§ Mr. D. PriceMy right hon. Friend is awaiting the views of the Cinematograph Films Council which is, he understands, giving early consideration to the situation.