HC Deb 07 March 1989 vol 148 cc480-1W
Mr. Andrew Mitchell

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster when he intends to lay the Films Order.

Mr. Maude

I have today laid before the House the Films (Exclusivity Agreements) Order 1989 which will come into force on 3 April. Except for minor amendments, this will follow articles 4 to 6 of the draft order, published in August 1988. The order does not include articles addressing the delay in release of popular films, because it is now clear from the representations received and recent developments that there has been a marked and welcome increase in competition in the cinema exhibition industry as well as a further increase in cinema attendances.

If the benefits of increased competition do not materialise, it remains open to me to take further action under the Fair Trading Act.