Neeson criticises 'appalling' move to axe UK Film Council
Neeson criticises 'appalling' decision to axe UK Film Council
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A government decision to abolish the UK Film Council has been labelled "a big mistake" and "ill-thought and incoherent". |  |
Thursday, 29, Jul 2010 05:01
Actor Liam Neeson has called the government's move to abolish the UK Film Council "quite appalling", after thousands signed a petition opposing the plans.
Culture secretary Jeremy Hunt announced the decision earlier this week as part of a cost-cutting initiative, despite the film council having been involved in successful releases such as The Last King of Scotland, Bend It Like Beckham and Fish Tank, among others.
More than 28,000 people have now signed an online petition in support of the UK Film Council and Neeson has now added his voice to those opposing the government plans.
Speaking at the UK press conference for his new film The A-Team, Neeson said of the government's move: "I know we all have to tighten our belts but I think it's quite appalling."
He continued: "I haven't quite formed my opinion of it - I'm just getting a kneejerk reaction of 'Oh my god, of all the things to tighten...' To save what, 17 dollars?"
The Schindler's List actor added: "It's pretty shocking and it makes me worried about this government."
Palme d'Or winner Mike Leigh has also criticised the move, saying: "It's from left of field in a very sudden and devastating way."