Scottish Executive publish review of Scottish Screen

The Scottish Executive have recently published a report on their review of Scottish Screen.
Culture Minister Mike Watson, answering a parliamentary question, said the agency must focus on changing trends to deliver real benefits for Scottish film.
Scottish Screen have now been asked to work on an action plan to be delivered by the end of February.
Mr Watson said: "The report concludes that there is a continuing role for Scottish Screen as a non-departmental public body and, while recognising the value and quality of much of Scottish Screen’s work, it is critical in part.
"It makes recommendations for improvements in a number of areas which include focus, balance between cultural and economic functions, partnership with other agencies and performance management."
The report identified a number of trends in the development of film in Scotland, including a gradual rise in the level of feature film production over the last 10 years, and a significant rise in the number of short film schemes.
Scottish feature films regularly attract critical success, although box office success has been more elusive and there are significant problems of distribution. Production for television has helped some companies to grow and expand into feature film production.
Sarah Jane Kerr, Head of PACT Scotland, said: "PACT are delighted that the Scottish Executive, in publishing this report, have recognised the importance of infrastructural support for the Screen Industries in Scotland.
"In general, we support the recommendations of the review. If these are implemented, we can look forward to a Scottish Screen which works more strategically within the sector.
"In particular, PACT, as the trade association representing the cultural and economic interests of the Independent sector, welcomes the call for greater interaction with other agencies, and the development of a convincing communications strategy, to create a more focused operational rapport with the industry.
(GB)