BRITISH FILMS.

Press, Volume LXIII, Issue 19160, 17 November 1927, Page 9

BRITISH FILMS.

THE PREFERENCE SCHEME.

DEBATE IN COMMONS. (BT CIBLB—PMSS ASSOCIATION—COPTMOHT.) (AUSTRALIAN AND K.Z. WT> SUIT CABLE.) (Received November 16th, 7.30 p.m.) LONDON, November 16. In the House of Commons, resuming the debate on the Cinematograph Films Bill, the Rt. Hon. Josiah Wedgwood moved an amendment to strike out the provision that the quota of British films must include a proportion of long as well as short films. He contended that this would create a monopoly for the few firms equipped to produce long films. Commander Kenworthy complained of the Admiralty's extraordinary assistance in the production of several long films'. The Mediterranean Fleet had put to sea and carried out manoeuvres for filming at the cost of many thousands of pounds. He said the whole thing was propaganda for militarism and war. The amendment was rejected by 225 votes to 142. An amendment that exhibitor should show the registration date of each registered film, whether British or foreign, was rejected. Sir Charles Oman moved an amendment that the license of a renter or exhibitor might be revoked on a third conviction for failure to comply with the quota provisions. He argued that his amendment was designed to deal with wealthy and contumacious offenders. It was well known that the Bill was opposed by wealthy proprietors of foreign companies. Sir P. Cunliffe-Lister thought it only fair to leave the question to the free vote of the House. It was not a power to be given. lightly, because it might mean shutting up a man's business. The debate was adjourned.