Hertsmere poised for close collaboration with Israel’s film and TV industry

Hertsmere — the home of much of Britain’s film and television industry — is poised for close collaboration with Israel’s burgeoning film and TV industry.

In a motion unanimously backed by Hertsmere councillors, proposer councillor Paul Morris said: “We are a borough that is proud of our rich and prestigious history in film and TV production and is looking forward to the future, thanks to the launch of Sky Studios Elstree and the new Platinum Stages at Elstree Studios.

“We are equally proud of our diversity and tolerance as a borough, and this motion combines our two strengths as it attempts to enhance community cohesion and explore economic possibilities.

“By joining hands with our counterparts in the flourishing Israeli TV and film industry, we can explore opportunities which will benefit all of our community”.

The broadcast industry in the area dates back more than a century, and the resolution says that the proposed media twinning should focus on TV and film production, to boost business and signal to all communities “that any form of discrimination is abhorrent”.

Cllr Harvey Cohen, who seconded the motion, added: “Hertsmere is becoming the film, media and TV centre of Europe, and Israel is the number one start-up nation in the world with examples of its growing and increasingly popular TV industry being seen on Netflix and TV screens all over the world. This motion signals our commitment to our Jewish communities and all our residents that we do not tolerate discrimination”.