HC Deb 07 February 1938 vol 331 cc663-4
43. Lord Balniel

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether an architect has yet been selected for the British pavilion at next year's New York World's Fair; and what steps are being taken to secure the co-operation of United Kingdom industry?

Mr. Hudson

The reply to both parts of my hon. Friend's question is in the affirmative. On the recommendation of a specially constituted and representative selection committee, I have appointed the firm of Stanley Hall and Easton and Robertson as architects for United Kingdom participation. In order to assist my Department to secure the maximum of possible co-operation from industry in this country, an advisory committee under my chairmanship has been set up, the membership of which is:

The right hon. The Lord Riverdale of Sheffield, K.B.E., and Sir Godfrey Clark, C.S.I., O.B.E., a past and present President respectively of the Association of British Chambers of Commerce;

Mr. Peter Bennett, O.B.E., J.P., and Mr. Guy Locock, C.M.G., Deputy President and Director respectively of the Federation of British Industries, and

Mr. T. St. Quintin Hill, C.M.G., O.B.E., Comptroller-General, Department of Overseas Trade.

Sir Percy Harris

Will the right hon. Gentleman keep the design of this pavilion in the hands of his own Department in order to prevent the recurrence of the unfortunate experiment in Paris, which was rather adverse to this country?

Mr. Hudson

I have already stated that I have set up a special selection committee to give me advice, and on their advice I have nominated this particular firm of architects. We propose, in addition, to submit the final design of sketches and plans to the Royal Fine Art Commission.

Mr. Ellis Smith

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the workpeople in this country are interested in exhibitions of the products of this country, and also the need for representation of the working people's organisation on a committee of this kind?

Mr. Hudson

On my Department's exhibitions advisory committee there is a representative of the Trades Union Congress, and he has promised to work in close co-operation.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that the Prime Minister is "no" exhibited?

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