BFI chief executive Ben Roberts used the inaugural UK Film Conference at the Edinburgh Film Festival to argue for a broader, joined-up approach to supporting British cinema. He said the BFI’s role extends beyond financing films to helping the conditions for production, distribution, exhibition, archives, festivals and education, with greater film education in schools the “missing piece”.

Roberts acknowledged that the BFI’s public funding decisions can frustrate applicants, as most projects must be refused, but defended its formal application processes because it distributes National Lottery money. He said the organisation provides about £150 million over a three-year cycle and should support projects that may not attract commercial investment while still applying qualitative judgement.