§ 39. Mr. Grimondasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is satisfied that Britain's point of view is adequately presented in Middle Eastern countries, having regard to the small 686 number of British books available in the area, and to the lean budgets for information and news services; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NuttingMy right hon. Friend is well aware of the importance of presenting Britain's point of view to the Middle Eastern countries. A considerable effort is being made there by our Information Services and the British Council, which maintain libraries of British books and periodicals in 11 Middle Eastern centres.
§ Mr. GrimondWill the Minister do his best to persuade the Treasury to be a little more forthcoming in this matter, as there is a widespread belief that it is Treasury opposition which makes it difficult to get British books into this area? There seems to be a distinct lack of money available?
§ Mr. NuttingWe are doing all we can. This year, the British Council will resume its activities in Persia and will open an office in Kuwait.