Bollywood deal 'will aid UK film'

A deal to help Bollywood producers to work in the UK will help the British movie industry withstand the economic downturn, the film minister has said.

Barbara Follett said the UK industry offered "an excellent product" and the deal would help "maintain excellence".

"The wider your base, in an economically difficult time, the more resilient you'll be," she added.

She spoke alongside director Vipul Shah, who has taken over Trafalgar Square to make new film London Dreams.

Its stars, Ajay Devhan and Asin, were also at the launch of the agreement, which has now come into force.

The treaty means Indian film-makers will find it easier to obtain tax relief if they collaborate with British producers