§ 28. Mr. Swinglerasked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development if, in view of the Cinematograph Films Council's recommendation, he will reconsider his decision to sell the Government's share in British Lion; if he will consider giving an option to the National Film Finance Corporation to retain control of the company; and what steps he will take on the Council's recommendation to form a third booking circuit.
§ Mr. HeathNo. I would refer the hon. Member to the statement I made after Questions on 16th January. As regards the third part of the Question, I am giving careful consideration to the Cinematograph Film Council's recommendation that I should examine the feasibility of introducing a larger measure of competition into film exhibition.
§ 39. Mrs. Whiteasked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development what safeguards it is proposed to insert in the appropriate contract of sale so as to maintain the independence of British Lion Films Limited.
§ Mr. HeathThe Board of Trade, N.F.F.C., and their respective legal 77W advisers are now working on the formulation of safeguards and the means of maintaining them.