Britain’s Film Agency to Open Office in L.A.

LONDON —  Predicting success in the Academy Awards, the British government has announced plans to open an office in Los Angeles to boost the country’s film industry.

Culture Secretary Chris Smith said the film office will give practical help to British filmmakers in America and promote Britain as a filmmaking base to the major Hollywood studios.

Writing in today’s edition of the Express, Smith said he wants the office to be run in partnership with the industry.

“By the time our British nominees go to Los Angeles for next year’s Oscar ceremony, the . . . film office will no doubt be able to host the best victory party,” he said.