H—44

Compilation of the material for the new issue of the Directory of New Zealand Manufacturers was completed during the year, and it is now in the hands of the printer. Unfortunately, publication has been somewhat delayed due to printing difficulties, but it is anticipated that the new volume will be available in July or August, 1948. (b) Exhibitions and Industrial Fairs Participation in industrial fairs and exhibitions continues to be administered by the Department, in close collaboration with the inter-Departmental Committee, comprising representatives of Departments which have special interest in bringing displays before the public. During the year various exhibits were arranged, of which brief particulars are now given, The " Meet New Zealand " Exhibition, which was conducted by the United Kingdom Office of Information, opened in London in October, 1947, and is to be taken to various points in the United Kingdom over a period of twelve months. It has as its main purpose the presentation of a composite picture of New Zealand to the man-in-the-street. A British Empire Exhibition, in which New Zealand participated, was held in conjunction with the 1947 Royal Agricultural Society Easter Show in Sydney. A New Zealand Court was provided in the revived Canadian National Exhibition held in Toronto. An exhibit was also provided in the annual New Zealand Industries Fair, organized by the Canterbury Manufacturers' Association at Christchurch, while, in conjunction with the Otago Centennial " Pageant of Progress," the Department organized and co-ordinated the displays of floats in which nine different Departments of State were interested. Several discussions were held by the Inter-departmental Committee in connection with the proposed International Exhibition planned by Canterbury for its centennial in 1950, but the promoting authorities have agreed that the venture should be postponed until a more favourable time. SECTION 3.—MOTION-PICTURE INDUSTRY Administration of the Cinematograph Film Regulations 1937 was carried out by the Department during the year. At 31st March, 1948, 315 theatres were licensed to exhibit films. Shortages of materials and labour are still retarding renovations to premises, while new construction which is desirable in some locations is also held up. It is expected that the Motion-picture Industry Committee set up by the Government to inquire into the motion-picture industry will open its proceedings and hear evidence before Parliament resumes. The order of reference covers a wide range of matters affecting the industry and the public interest, including the provisions for theatre licensing and the constitution, functions, and operation of the Film Industry Board. This Board, which was established by agreement between the principal industrial interests concerned, acts as an advisory body in the internal settlement of problems affecting the industry.

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