§ 28. Mr. Shersbyasked the Secretary of State for Trade what is the extent of Government support for the British film industry; what are the prospects for production during 1975 and the estimated earnings from overseas distribution; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DeakinsStatutory support is given to the British film industry by a screen quota for British films. There is also a statutory levy on cinema seats for later distribution to the makers of British films which amounted to approximately £4,225 million between 1st October 1973 and 30th September 1974. Loans made through a consortium in which both private interests and the National Film Finance Corporation participate included £291,143 from public funds in 1974–75. I cannot forecast the number of films likely to be produced in 1975. The most recent figures for earnings from overseas distribution are for 1973 when the sum was £22.8 million.
§ Mr. Martenasked the Secretary of State for Trade how many companies incorporated in another member State of the EEC have qualified for aid from the British Film Fund by virtue of the fact that their central management and control is in the United Kingdom; who decides whether a company incorporated in another member State is centrally managed and controlled in the United Kingdom; and what are the criteria used in such cases.
§ Mr. DeakinsNone. The British Film Fund Agency, which is responsible, makes payments by reference to the criteria laid down in the Cinematograph Films (Distribution of Levy) Regulations 1970.