US Tariff on UK Films

Viscount Colville of Culross Excerpts

Thursday 8th May 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Blake of Leeds (Lab)]

The noble Baroness touches on an issue very close to my heart. I find it absolutely fascinating that, as a high-profile industry, the film industry is not more attractive to young people coming through the system. There has to be much greater awareness of what is involved. We also want to make sure that careers in screen are accessible to everyone. Of course, we have the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority working with us, and our “make work pay” initiatives. There is much going into this, but I completely recognise the further work that needs to be done linking to curriculum changes, attracting young people in, but protecting those who are already in the industry.

[Viscount Colville of Culross (CB)]

My Lords, at the risk of driving the Minister back under her pillow, I would like to ask about the digital sales tax, which has been part of the US trade negotiations. Can the Minister tell the House whether the tax, which President Trump has called “overseas extortion”, will be abolished for US tech companies as part of the trade agreement that we are expecting this afternoon?

[Baroness Blake of Leeds (Lab)]

I am sorry to disappoint the noble Viscount, but we have to wait until the announcement is made and then we can look at the detail and discuss it further.