§ Mr. Duncan SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to increase film production in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [13139]
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonMy right hon. Friend attaches great importance to the development of the film industry in Scotland. Scottish Office funding for film has risen from £1 million in 1993–94 to almost £1.5 million 733W in the current financial year. This includes an additional £180,000 for the Scottish Film Council to enable it to commission a CD-ROM, for delivery in April this year, which will give film makers throughout the world access to information about Scotland.
My noble Friend the Minister with responsibility for the arts in Scotland has held a number of discussions with leading figures in the UK and overseas film industry to seek their views on what more can be done to stimulate film production in Scotland. In addition, two studies have been commissioned from Hydra Associates. One is examining measures that might be taken to stimulate the film and television industry in Scotland and the other focuses on the need to improve the present arrangements for funding major film productions. Both studies are due to be completed next month.