British Cinemas Carry On Despite Drastic Duty On Imported Films

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 12, Issue 24, 24 February 1948, Page 6

British Cinemas Carry On Despite Drastic Duty On Imported Films

The recent storm over the British Government’s decision to increase the duty on imported films to 75 per cent., has well nigh spent itself after a period of confusion in which workers in various sections of the film industry, and indeed, those outside, have been making statements, both responsible and irresponsible, writes Hazel Penny in “Coming Events.” The hubbub has now subsided and, contrary to some prophecies, Britain’s cinemas haVe not closed their doors. It now seems to be more fully appreciated that Britain simply cannot afford to continue spending an increasing number of dollars on films. As was stated by Mr Glenvil Hall of the Treasury, in the House of Commons some weeks ago, the increased duty is not intended to obtain additional revenue, nor is it an aggressive act against Hollywood in the interests of our own British industry. Before the war Britain paid 28 million dollars a year for American films and that figure has risen to 68 million. This, in view of our present economic position is a situation which could not, and indeed, should not be tolerated. It is the earnest hope not only of the film people in this country, but of the millions of cinema goers, that a satisfactory settlement which will reduce the drain on dollars but at the same time allow us to enjoy the film products of other countries, will soon be possible.