The UK’s Culture, Media and Sport Committee has called on the Chancellor Rachel Reeves to use next month’s budget to bring forward tax relief to support the distribution and exhibition of independent British films.
In a letter to Reeves, the committee called for the introduction of a 25% tax relief for the prints and advertising costs of films, claiming the Independent Film Tax Credit (IFTC), as recommended in the April 2025 report on British film and high-end TV.
The committee warned that while there are early signs that the IFTC is making a difference to the industry, there are still challenges when it comes to distribution and exhibition.
The letter added that the additional tax relief has the power to generate a cycle of investment into independent British film.
The Chair of the CMS Committee, Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, said: “The introduction of the IFTC in the last budget has provided a welcome boost to our film industry, but without proper marketing, many great British films end up missing out on the audiences they deserve.
"With the government’s industrial strategy recognising film and TV as a frontier industry, the Chancellor now has the chance to follow through on the government’s commitment, support the independent film sector and demonstrate that she recognises the potential it has to drive growth and create jobs.”
The IFTC offers 40% tax relief to independent British films. Introduced by the previous conservative government, it has sparked a significant growth in lower- and medium-budget film production.
The UK Government’s Autumn Budget 2025 will be delivered on 26 November 2025.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has unveiled a £60m support package for the UK creative industries, including start-up video game studios, British music and film exports and creative businesses outside of London. Discover more here.
BBC Group to deliver original content for YouTube
As viewer behaviour reaches a critical tipping point, the BBC Group has struck a deal to produce new programming for YouTube, in an effort to capture younger viewers.
Netflix switches to all-cash offer for Warner Bros Discovery
Netflix has revised its bid for Warner Bros Discovery's studio and streaming business to an all-cash offer.
IBC2026 opens call for technical papers
The call for technical papers is now open for the IBC2026 Conference, which will take place at RAI Amsterdam from 11-14 September.
Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy steps down
Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm, is stepping down after 14 years. She plans to transition back to full-time producing, including the studio’s upcoming feature films The Mandalorian and Grogu and Star Wars: Starfighter.
Paramount appoints Reemah Sakaan as President of 5
Paramount has appointed Reemah Sakaan as President of its UK public service broadcaster, 5.


