BRITISH TV FILMS

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30804, 16 July 1965, Page 12

BRITISH TV FILMS

N.Z. May Get No More

"The Press" Special Service WELLINGTON, July 15. It might not be possible to get new television material for -New Zealand television, because the British Screenwriters’ Guild has decided to withdraw overseas rights from commercial companies, said the assistant Director-General of Broadcasting (Mr L. R. Sceats). The N.Z.B.C. used manv British films, he said. The withdrawal was not likely to affect programmes in New Zealand immediately because any series already contracted for would be completed. This meant that a feature such as “Coronation Street" would continue to run unti l the series the N.Z.B.C. had bought was finished. He did not know what the corporation would do for ne v material—it would have to investigate “alternative; sources.”

The British Screenwriters’ Guild made its decision last Friday after a dispute over payments for overseas syndication.

The guild demanded 7} per cent of the gross takings. The Independent Television Companies Association, which represents all commercial television stations, offered 10 per cent of net earnings. Mr A. Yatter. general secretary of the guild, said in London that the decision ■ would not affect shows “in the can.”