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A major research project to assess the size and shape of the workforce in the British film industry has been launched by Skillset, the National Training Organisation for Broadcast, Film, Video and Interactive Media, and the UK Film Council. The survey, the largest of its kind ever to be undertaken, will examine the age, earning power and diversity of the workforce, as well as analysing work patterns and investigating skills gaps in every area of the film industry ? from set dressers to sound artists and producers.
The survey is being carried out in response to recommendations in ?A Bigger Future ? the UK Film Skills Strategy?, a report into the training needs of the film industry which was launched in 2003 (ArtsProfessional issue 58).

News of the survey coincides with the release of figures revealing the extent of UK film production spending. Work on several major Hollywood movies in the UK contributed to production spending of £1.17bn in 2003, an increase of 113% on 2002. High profile films such as Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and the remake of Alfie meant that overseas filmmakers working in Britain contributed over £400m to the UK economy. Home-grown film production grew by 21%, and there was a 700% rise in international income generated from films co-produced with the UK. Arts Minister, Estelle Morris said the new figures demonstrated the ?huge contribution our film industry makes to the UK economically as well as culturally.? Steve Norris, Head of the UK Film Council?s International Department which compiled the figures, added: ?If we are to make the most of this success we need to ensure that we continue to offer the skills and infrastructure necessary to attract overseas filmmakers and we need to improve distribution to ensure that more British films are seen.?