Covid-19: Creative Industries

Lord Stevenson of Balmacara Excerpts

Tuesday 22nd September 2020 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Barran (Con)]

We are absolutely clear that the role of the creative industries in protecting our mental health in particular has been vital during lockdown.

[Lord Stevenson of Balmacara (Lab) [V]]

My Lords, the Film and TV Production Restart Scheme’s rules, which were published last week, say in rule 11 that it is expected that funding granted under the scheme will comply with social commitments that address issues such as lack of diversity. This is very welcome. However, there appears to be a let-out clause for pre-existing productions. Can the Minister confirm that the Government will scrutinise this issue carefully and that any attempts by producers in receipt of these funds to weaken commitments to diversity will be rigorously challenged?

[Baroness Barran (Con)]

I am very happy to take back the noble Lord’s point and ensure that this is looked at carefully, as he suggests.