HC Deb 29 March 1927 vol 204 cc1040-1
52. Mr. TREVELYAN

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he has inquired the views of the trustees of the British Museum as to the measures which would be necessary to light the Museum on Sundays in case of fog; whether he has had any estimate made of the cost which would be required to effect the change; and whether he is prepared now to reconsider the possibility of making the necessary arrangements?

Mr. McNEILL

The answer to all three parts of the question is in the negative.

Mr. TREVELYAN

May I ask whether it is not desirable to consult the trustees in a matter like this?

Mr. McNEILL

I think not.

Mr. RAMSAY MacDONALD

May I ask whether the trustees are not, as a matter of fact, very much interested in this, and would like very much to be consulted in the matter?

Mr. McNEILL

I cannot say whether they are interested or not, but there is no reason why they should not communicate their interest, if they wish to do so.

Mr. MacDONALD

But are not the trustees a semi-public body charged with great responsibilities, like the Government?

Mr. McNEILL

Yes, and it is for that very reason that I leave them to do their own business.