§ 24. Mr. PondTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what representations he has received on the use of restrictive clauses by film distribution companies in the sale of cinemas. [144803]
§ Mr. Chris SmithMy hon. Friend the Minister for Tourism, Film and Broadcasting has responded to a letter from my hon. Friend. Although the use of restrictive covenants is a matter for commercial negotiation between purchasers and vendors, we would like to encourage the retention of town centre cinemas.