The Cinema Exhibitors’ Association and the Film Distributors’ Association today announced the appointment of Stan Fishman CBE, former President of the CEA, as the new Chair of the Film Complaints Panel.
The Panel, originally established at the suggestion of the Monopolies and Mergers Commission, provides an informal means to resolve disputes between companies working in the cinema sector. Consisting of the Panel Chair and the Chief Executives of the two trade associations, it hears evidence from both sides to any issue before arriving at its judgement.
While not formally bound to act upon the Panel’s response, members of both Associations are expected to take notice of the judgement in the spirit in which it is intended.
Looking forward to his new role, Stan Fishman commented:
“In cinema as much as any business, disputes between companies inevitably arise from time to time. On the overwhelming majority of these occasions, matters are resolved quickly through informal discussion.
However, where this is not immediately possible, the existence of the Panel has been beneficial to the relationship between exhibitors and distributors, providing a forum for issues to be aired without the need for recourse to more formal action. I look forward to playing my part in ensuring the continued availability of that forum.”
Stan took up his position on 1 June 2008.