HC Deb 14 July 1953 vol 517 cc1892-3
35. Mr. Gower

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if, in future he will make it a condition of his grant to the Arts Council that larger proportions should be allocated to Wales, Scotland and Ulster, respectively.

Mr. R. A. Butler

No, Sir. The Scottish and Welsh shares are for the Council to determine, and their Charter does not extend to Northern Ireland,

Mr. Gower

Is the Minister satisfied that the money has been sensibly spent? Did he note a recent report that a picture purchased by the Arts Council was hung upside down at Manchester for five days before the fact was noticed, and will he consider that, if he allocates a reasonable proportion to Wales, it will be used much more sensibly?

Mr. Butler

I think my hon. Friend's supplementary question is difficult to answer. I do not know, without seeing the picture, whether it is a reflection on the artistic perception of Manchester or on the nature of the picture itself; but, in reply to the other part of my hon. Friend's question, I am satisfied that there is an adequate grant for Wales.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Will the Chancellor resist pressure from his own benches to restrict or restrain in any way the proper free use of the judgment of the Arts Council?

Mr. Butler

I do not accept the reflection on these benches, but I will resist that pressure.