TV and film companies who want to use Elstree Film Studios may have to commit to pay equality between male and female actors, if Labour councillors get their way this week.

Earlier this year it emerged that The Crown co-stars Claire Foy and Matt Smith had not been paid the same for their roles in the blockbusting tv drama, which was filmed at the studios.

And that has sparked calls for studio owners Hertsmere Borough Council to make future users of Elstree Studios sign a contract committing not to discriminate, if they are to use the studios.

Labour councillor Michelle Vince, who represents the Borehamwood Cowley Hill ward, says she was “absolutely shocked” to hear of the gender pay gap in The Crown.

She is pleased that producers have committed to rectify the gender-based inequality in future series of the show.

But she says the studios should always reflect the values of the council.

And she will put the motion – requiring all future occupants to make a contractual commitment not to discriminate, directly or indirectly – to a meeting of full council on Wednesday evening.

She said: “It wouldn’t be acceptable in any other area of the council – so why is it acceptable in the Studios?

“We are very proactive in saying we are a studio town. We should be proactive in tackling the gender pay gap everywhere. We should not be turning a blind eye to it.

“I am hoping this motion will be supported across the board – it would be a very poor show if it wasn’t.”

Cllr Vince is confident the change would send a strong message, but wouldn’t deter film-makers from using the studios.

She said: “I don’t think it would discourage anyone – it’s a great studio and a massive asset for our town.

“These productions are massive earners and they could afford to pay men and women equally – even if it meant the men had to be paid slightly less.”

The Council bought the Elstree Film Studios, on Shenley Road, Borehamwood, in 1996. And they now bring in an income of around £1.4million a year to the council, which is used to provide services for local people.

If the motion goes ahead, as well as gender, the proposed contract would extend to a commitment not to discriminate on the nine protected characteristics in the Equality Act (2010).