HC Deb 15 December 1955 vol 547 c1373
21. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Education what steps have been taken to secure for educational purposes adequate permanent exhibitions in this country of Indian and Pakistani objects of cultural interest.

Sir D. Eccles

There is a large and representative collection in the Victoria and Albert Museum. There are, also, though these do not fall within my province, the collections of sculpture, objects of art and manuscripts in the British Museum, and of paintings in the Bodleian Library at Oxford.

Mr. Sorensen

Is the Minister aware that it is a matter of opinion whether these are representative collections, and that many who are competent to speak on the subject feel that the exhibition is not an adequate one? Is any revision taking place?

Sir D. Eccles

I was not aware that there were important gaps in the Victoria and Albert collection but if there are and a suitable object is offered, the Museum authorities will no doubt consider acquiring it.