Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 62 Part 3.djvu/393

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INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS OTHER THAN TREATIES [62 STAT. 61Stat., Pt.6,p. A20 . Post, p. 3004 . Post, p. 3004 . Distribution quota system. 61 Stat., Pt. 5, pp.A34 A40. JOINT DECLARATION OF THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE FRENCH REPUBLIC ON MOTION PICTURES The Government of the United States of America and the Govern- ment of the French Republic have, at the request of the latter, re- examined certain questions relating to the distribution and exhibition in the French Union of American motion picture films, and, in partic- ular, the Franco-American Motion Picture Understanding of May 28, 1946.[1] During these conversations, the specific problems relat- ing to the distribution and exhibition of American films in the French Union have been discussed in the light of the special conditions facing the French Government resulting from its external financial position and balance of payments and other postwar problems of economic adjustment. These conversations have taken place with due regard for the relevant provisions of the international conventions and agreements to which both Governments are parties. I. The French Government has informed the Government of the United States of America that in view of the current situation in the French film industry it is necessary to increase the screen time reserved to films of national origin. The Franco-American Motion Picture Understanding of May 28, 1946, having expired in accordance with the provisions therein, the French Government has decided, consistent with Article IV of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade of October 30, 1947, to reserve five weeks per quarter for the exhibition of French films, except as otherwise noted (Annex A). II. The French Government has decided to make certain modifications in its administrative regulations regarding the two-year rule, fifteen- situations restriction, and allocation of raw stock (Annexes B, C and D). III. In view of the current French external financial situation and balance of payments, the French Government has decided to institute a distribution quota system (applicable to imported films which are dubbed in France for distribution in the French Union) which it con- siders to be within the provisions of Articles XII and XIII of the Gen- eral Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. Recognizing its obligations under the above-mentioned Articles of the General Agreement, the French Government undertakes to relax progressively the restriction i Not printed. 3002