HC Deb 25 July 1951 vol 491 cc457-8
33. Mr. Dodds

asked the Lord Privy Seal what decision has been reached in respect to the proposed continuation of the South Bank Exhibition in 1952.

Mr. Stokes

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Bridlington (Mr. Wood) on 11th July.

Mr. Dodds

Does my right hon. Friend agree that it would be regrettable to dismantle this Exhibition which has been created at high cost and has great value in human happiness and in the educational sphere? Would he look into the effect of having a showman included—an enterprising showman on the spot—to get the additional support? If not, will he look into this and other matters before a final decision is made?

Mr. Stokes

I have had the matter before me and no case has yet been made out financially attractive to me. Until it is, I do not propose to recommend any alternative to closing down on the announced date. As regards the new showman—

Mr. Dodds

A showman, not a new showman. In view of the necessity of assessing the answer given, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible moment.