UK and Israeli film industries to join forces
Plans for closer links between the UK and Israeli film industries have been announced by Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who confirmed that negotiations will begin to allow closer collaboration between the two countries.
During his visit to Israel, Mr Brown and Prime Minister Olmert agreed to develop a UK Israel film co-production treaty. The treaty would make it easier for film makers in the UK and Israel to share talent and pool their resources to create films which will benefit both countries financially and culturally.
International collaborations are vitally important to the expansion of the UK film industry and guarantee home grown talent is promoted on a world wide stage. They also make a significant economic contribution; over 400 co-production films have been made in the last seven years, which have contributed over £1 billion to the UK economy.
Existing treaties with Europe and countries including Australia, New Zealand and Canada have spawned box office hits such as Casino Royale, The Last King of Scotland, The Constant Gardner and The Wind that Shakes the Barley.
UK Film Minister Margaret Hodge said:
"Film making has always been an international industry. To compete on a world stage, it's essential that UK film makers have the best possible opportunities to pool talent and expertise.
"Co-productions have proved their worth, contributing over £1 billion to the UK economy. Negotiations will now start with Israel, and we hope for a treaty that will benefit both countries, and film viewers."
A co-production treaty would encourage Israeli film makers to invest in British talent and UK locations. In return they would benefit from UK film making expertise and the films could be eligible for UK film tax incentives, which are designed to encourage investment in our domestic industry.
Notes to Editors
1. Negotiations for setting up the treaty structures will take place over the coming months.
2. The UK has six existing co-production treaties, with Australia, Canada, France, New Zealand, South Africa and Jamaica. A treaty with India has been signed, and is currently being ratified. Treaty negotiations are ongoing with Morocco and China.
3. These Agreements enable and encourage the co-production of films between the UK and its partner countries by offering the opportunity for film producers meeting the requirements of the Agreement to qualify for a British film certificate. Qualification means they are eligible to apply for tax relief on expenditure in the UK.
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Published on: 2008-07-22
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