BFI Takes Over UK Film Council funding Role

The BFI (British Film Institute) is set to take over the funding role previously managed by the UK Film Council. It was controversially removed in July with the abolition of the body. The new responsibilities will start in April 2011 and the BFI will also distribute lottery money to filmmakers based in the UK. Regional agency Film London will take on the Film Council's role in promoting the UK as a filmmaking destination.

Culture Minster Ed Vaizey set out a package of measures today to ‘support’ UK filmmakers, creating financial stability and a more direct and open relationship with the Government. The key parts of the proposal include:

The BFI will take on a key role as the lead strategic film body and distributor of Lottery funds to UK filmmakers.
Lottery funds for film will rise from around £27m today to around £43m annually by 2014; and
Film London will be given a UK-wide responsibility to promote this country as the best place to invest in film.
DCMS and BFI will lead a review on how to build a more sustainable film industry and develop audiences for British films.
The BFI will work with Film London, BAFTA and to consider the role BAFTA and BBC Worldwide could play to support the distribution of British films abroad; and English Regional Screen Agencies are transforming their network into Creative England, a more efficient structure with an expanded remit to support the creative industries. Read More.....