HC Deb 22 May 1931 vol 252 cc2386-7
6. Sir K. WOOD

asked the Postmaster-General whether he can now make a further statement concerning the negotiations for the agreement in relation to the State subsidy for grand opera?

The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Viant)

A supplementary agreement with the British Broadcasting Corporation, which will include the provisions as to the opera grant, is in course of drafting and will be laid before Parliament as soon as it has been executed.

Sir K. WOOD

Does the hon. Gentleman know whether his right hon. Friend is pushing on as quickly as possible with this matter?

Mr. VIANT

The right hon. Gentleman can take it for granted that the whole matter is being expedited.

Mr. OSWALD LEWIS

Can the hon. Gentleman tell the House whether the present performances at Covent Garden are being given without any undertaking on the part of the Government to contribute?