48. Mr. REGINALD YOUNGasked the Prime Minister, if, in order to promote the artistic sincerity and dignity of Great Britain and to encourage the best elements in the British theatre, he will consider the establishment of a national theatre on lines somewhat similar to those followed by many European Governments?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI have a great deal of sympathy with the scheme which my hon. Friend has in mind. There are, however, serious difficulties arising partly from the number of similar schemes which are put forward. In present circumstances, therefore, I would only be holding out false hopes if I were to answer otherwise than that I regret that I cannot give a promise of a Government subsidy.
§ Mr. HOLFORD KNIGHTHas it been represented to the Prime Minister that there are various schemes for a national theatre?
§ Mr. JAMES HUDSONIf those who are pressing the various schemes would come to an agreement, would the Prime Minister be prepared to reconsider the answer that he has made?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI think that my answer is partly an invitation to them to do so.