30 June 2003

Jim Anderton MP, Progressive Leader

Progressives support film industry

Progressive leader Jim Anderton today announced support for film and television productions made in New Zealand through a production grant scheme.

The new grant scheme, strongly supported by Jim Anderton demonstrates the benefits of being part of a Coalition Government. It shows the value of MMP for constructive smaller parties.

“A 12.5 per cent production expenditure grant will be available for both local and overseas screen productions that meet the qualifying criteria.

“This grant scheme is an encouragement to attract and maintain the net economic benefits of hosting and producing major films and television productions in New Zealand,” said Jim Anderton.

The grant criteria means:

- If production expenditure in New Zealand exceeds $50 million the film or TV production will automatically qualify for the grant;
- If the production expenditure in New Zealand amounts to between $15 million and $50 million expenditure and this equates to at least 70 per cent of the total production expenditure then it will also qualify.

“Many announcements by the Coalition Government include Progressive input but this announcement is one that I have pursued and has been made possible by the Progessives being a reliable coalition partner,” said Jim Anderton.

ENDS

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