HC Deb 18 June 1931 vol 253 cc1940-1
51. Sir K. WOOD

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he proposes to submit the agreement providing for a subsidy to be paid to grand opera to the economy committee for their observations?

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

As the terms of reference of the Economy Committee cover the whole of the Supply Services, there is no necessity for my right hon. Friend to invite their attention to any specific item.

Sir K. WOOD

Can we be assured that we shall have some observations from the Committee on this matter?

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

Clearly that is not for me to say, but for the Committee.

Sir K. WOOD

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that that is done.

67. Duchess of ATHOLL

asked the Postmaster-General what representative or representatives of the British musical profession have been appointed to the committee which is to administer the opera subsidy; and what arrangements have been made to secure that the grant of the subsidy will result in the encouragement and assistance of British authors, composers, and executant artists?

The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Attlee)

No committee has been appointed to administer the opera subsidy. The Government payment will be made to the British Broadcasting Corporation in order to assist them to finance the arrangements they have made with the Covent Garden Opera Syndicate (1930) for the performance of operas which the Corporation are to have the right to broadcast. Under these arrangements the syndicate undertake to employ first-class British and Continental artists; and the British Broadcasting Corporation have the right to be consulted on the choice of the operas to be performed. The Corporation can, I think, be relied upon to exercise their influence in the direction of employing British talent so far as this can be done consistently with the main object of the scheme.

Duchess of ATHOLL

Will the syndicate have the advice of any representatives of the musical profession?

Viscountess ASTOR

If the Government have money with which to subsidise opera, will they find money for the foundlings?

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