§ 53. Dr. Barnett Strossasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many national art galleries and museums in Britain are financially supported by his Department; and how much was the total sum expended in the years 1928. 1938 and 1948.
§ Mr. GaitskellTen, Sir. The total expenditure of public funds was £382,000, £443,000 and £687,000 in 1928, 1938 and 1948, respectively. This does not include expenditure by other Departments providing buildings and equipment.
§ Dr. StrossIs my right hon. Friend aware that a considerable part of these sums is provided by provincial citizens who are also subject to taxation, and that a much smaller sum expended in the Provinces on the galleries and museums in those areas would completely transform the very poor service that they tend to have?
§ Mr. GaitskellThat is really quite a different question.