New panel explores British film industry

The former culture minister Lord Smith is to lead an eight member panel to examine the state of the British film industry.
The panel – including the Oscar-winning Gosford Park writer and Downton Abbey creator Lord Fellowes – will look into film production, development, distribution and investment.
Lord Smith said that British film at its best could beat the world, but the crucial question was how to ensure that it’s always able to achieve its best.
The panel is expected to deliver its report by the end of the year.
The Films Minister Ed Vaizey said it would help to create what he called “a flourishing film culture” across the whole of the UK.