851.4061 Motion Pictures/91: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in France (Armour)
192. Department understands that French press takes attitude that this Government is not interested in film matters. The following statement was given to the press on Saturday and it might be well for you to give similar statement in Paris.
“Last March the Department instructed various American missions in Europe to present the American point of view on the moving picture situation. Broadly speaking, this was that the various quota systems which have been put into effect by various Governments are destructive of the liberty in international commerce which was the basis of the recent discussions concerning export and import restrictions. It was pointed out that foreign interest in American films had led to extensive American investment in foreign countries and that this investment [Page 1017] was jeopardized by arbitrary Government measures which change from month to month. It was pointed out that, aside from censorship measures, there should be the freest exchange of films, and that the motion picture industry in this country had always been most friendly and helpful in the importation of good foreign films, and the hope was therefore expressed that appropriate steps might be taken to remove the restrictive regulations which not only jeopardize American investments but would hinder the international development of the film industry.
Since that time the Department has made no further protest but has watched developments and has gladly transmitted statements made by the Industry here to the various bodies considering the question.
The principal debate on the matter which has centered around a quota system has occurred in Paris. A few days ago the Department sent a statement made by the organized film interests that, if this quota system should be definitely established, American motion picture interests would probably be compelled to withdraw from France altogether. The latest word from Paris is that the French Government has reached no decision and that, although there is sentiment in favor of a contingent quota, every effort will be made to come to an equitable solution of the whole matter. The Department understands that all negotiations in Paris are being carried on by the representative of the motion picture industry who is being assisted by the Commercial Attaché.”