US Tariff on UK Films

Lord Bassam of Brighton Excerpts

Thursday 8th May 2025 Lords Chamber

Asked by

[Lord Bassam of Brighton]

To ask His Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of the potential impact of a USA tariff levied at 100 per cent on UK films, and what discussions they are planning with the industry.

[Baroness in Waiting/Government Whip (Baroness Blake of Leeds) (Lab)]

My Lords, we are in active discussions with the top of the US Administration and we are clear that the deep ties between the US and UK film industries provide mutual benefits to both countries. This is a fluid situation, and we will continue to take a calm and steady approach. We are engaging closely with industry, and we are absolutely committed to ensuring that our film and TV sector can continue to thrive.

[Lord Bassam of Brighton (Lab)]

My Lords, I congratulate the Government on their calm approach, but the UK film and TV industry employs more than 200,000 people directly and indirectly in productions and is worth £4.8 billion in investment. Given that 87% of last year’s investment into the UK’s 191 films was external, can the Minister reassure the House that the sector and the Government are developing a plan to protect current investment levels from tariffs?

[Baroness Blake of Leeds (Lab)]

My Lords, the film sector is, as my noble friend says, a key part of the UK’s world-class creative industries and, as such, we are committed to ensuring that it continues to grow and create good jobs across the UK. Inward investment is vital, and we will work with international partners to continue to build on current successes. Supporting our domestic sector is equally important, and we will, as my noble friend asks, soon publish our creative industries sector plan to set up further support for the film industry and the wider creative industries, including increased support from the British Business Bank to access finance.