The arts minister has given her backing to a new initiative aimed at improving recruitment into the film industry among women and people from ethnic minorities.

A study by the UK Film Council has found that only 1.6 per cent of the film and video production workforce in the UK come from an ethnic minority background, while only 10 per cent of camera staff and eight per cent of lighting technicians are women.

In addition, the proportion of disabled workers in the UK film industry has remained at 0.8 per cent for the past two years.

"In addition to the principle of giving people equality of opportunity, there are sound business reasons for encouraging greater participation from all our communities in the UK's film industry," said Marcia Williams, head of diversity at the UK Film Council.

"Studies have shown that there is a direct link between good diversity policies and improved performance of organisations.

"Diversity is a catalyst for creativity and innovation and it's vital that such a highly competitive industry makes the most of the talent available across all sections of the population."

Morris called on other institutions within the film industry to follow the example set by the Council.

"Art holds up a mirror to reality," she said. "That's why this strategy is so important - because the film industry should fully reflect the rich diversity of our culture, both in front of and behind the camera. It must be open to every section of society."