They said “representation tax relief” was necessary because the UK film and television industry found itself in a “crisis” in terms of the inclusion of women, disabled people and those from BAME backgrounds, with research showing these groups are still underrepresented behind the camera.
They enrich the creativity of the UK and add to our cultural heritage, but unfortunately they continue to be the exception rather than the rule.”
The actors Lenny Henry, Thandie Newton and Chiwetel Ejiofor were among the signatories to a letter to the Guardian that said similar moves had been successful before and should be tried again.
“Over the years, some of the most important British films and television have been written and directed by Britain’s talented female, BAME [black, Asian and minority ethnic] and disabled creatives …