§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what discussions he has had with representatives of the small cinema industry about the viability of independent cinemas; and if he will make a statement. [91431]
§ Mr. Chris SmithMy Department has received no recent representations on this issue from representatives of the small cinema industry. The Government are keen to encourage the growth of a diverse, successful British film industry in which a wide range of film-makers, distributors and exhibitors can flourish. This will be one of the key aims of the new Film Council, to be established by 1 April 2000.