Member Article

Cameron recognises importance of UK Film industry

David Cameron has visited Pinewood film studios today, to meet small and medium sized businesses involved in the film industry.

The visit recognises the £4bn contribution to the economy made by the film industry, and comes ahead of a review of Government film policy next week.

Lord Smith’s report is expected to recommend that lottery funding is rebalanced to support more mainstream films that could become a commercial success as well as culturally rewarding films.

It will also suggest the Government continues to give funding support to the British Film Commission, and that the British Film Institute should ensure an export strategy to maximise profitability of the British film industry.

Mr Cameron said: “The UK film industry, the skills and crafts that support it, and our creative industries more widely, make a £4bn contribution to our economy and an incalculable contribution to our culture.

“But in this year when we set out bold ambitions for the future, when the eyes of the world will be on us, I think we should aim even higher, building on the incredible success of recent years.

“Our role, and that of the BFI, should be to support the sector in becoming even more dynamic and entrepreneurial, helping UK producers to make commercially successful pictures that rival the quality and impact of the best international productions.

“Just as the British Film Commission has played a crucial role in attracting the biggest and best international studios to produce their films here, so we must incentivise UK producers to chase new markets both here and overseas.

“I am confident that Lord Smith’s Review will form an ambitious blueprint, and look forward to his recommendations next week.”

The UK boasts a strong film industry; world leading in areas such as special effects where big capital investment has been secured, such as Warner Bros’ £100, purchase of Leavesden studios.

Lord Smith’s review is intended to identify any barriers to ambitious, independent British film production, that the Government is keen to ensure the success of in 2012.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .