§ 46. Sir A. H0LBROOKasked the Prime Minister whether, as England is the only country in Europe without a national opera house, he will consider the desirability of setting up a committee 1249 to formulate proposals for establishing in this country a national opera house on such a basis as regards prices of admission that people of all classes may have the opportunity of hearing the finest performances of grand opera in the English tongue?
§ The PRIME MINISTERIn the present state of the country's finances no such proposal as is suggested by my hon. and gallant Friend could be entertained.
§ Major CRAWFURDAs the right hon. Gentleman is not able to meet the point raised in this question, will he insist that in all opera houses in this country the season's programme shall include 25 per cent. of British operas?