HC Deb 01 February 1949 vol 460 cc1507-8
46. Mr. G. Thomas

asked the Prime Minister whether he is prepared to make an announcement offering financial support for the establishment of a national theatre for Wales.

The Prime Minister

The proposals of the Government for facilitating the provision of a national theatre in London were made as a result of an approach to them by a body of trustees having at their disposal substantial resources already collected for this purpose and a site upon which to build. Similar evidence of public support elsewhere would be needed before we could consider taking any further action. In any case I do not think it follows that because the State is helping to provide a national theatre in the heart of the Commonwealth, similar assistance should necessarily be given at the taxpayers' expense elsewhere.

Mr. Thomas

Is my right hon. Friend aware that I had no desire to annoy him and that the thought of having his own theatre here in London did not disturb me in the slightest? Is he also aware that we shall welcome the implied assurance that if we can raise some money he will do his best to get some more?

The Prime Minister

I can assure my hon. Friend that he did not annoy me at all, but I would ask him to read very carefully the statement I have made, which was carefully prepared.

Mr. Peter Freeman

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there is already a repertory theatre in Newport, which needs great help, is providing national plays and is an effort which has already been started?