Film Industry

Debate between Baroness Eaton and Lord Gardiner of Kimble

Monday 31st March 2014 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Eaton]

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what steps they are taking to support and expand the British film industry.

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble (Con)]

My Lords, the Government are committed to encouraging film production through public funding and some of the most generous creative tax reliefs in the world. Skills development and measures to introduce larger audiences to the widest possible range of films are helping to nurture the next generation of film-makers and viewers, so that the UK film and allied industries, which generate nearly 117,000 jobs and contribute £4.6 billion to national GDP, continue to prosper.

[Baroness Eaton (Con)]

Coming from Bradford, I am delighted that film in the UK is thriving and is one of the main drivers for growth in the economy. What are Her Majesty’s Government doing to encourage skills development and training in the film industry?

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble]

My Lords, I should first congratulate Bradford on being recognised as the world’s first UNESCO City of Film. Skills for digital and creative industries are vital, which is why the Government have increased their match funding of the skills development fund and are investing in the National Film and Television School’s digital village. The BFI has launched Creative England, its new talent workshop, and the industry is also engaged with apprenticeships and the BAFTA scholarships.