HC Deb 21 June 1955 vol 542 cc1124-5
27. Mr. Grimond

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made towards the provision of a gallery of modern art in Scotland.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

A site in Queen Street, Edinburgh, has been earmarked for this purpose, but I regret that I cannot yet say when building will begin.

Mr. Grimond

Has not the site been earmarked for many years? Cannot the Government give any indication when the building will be started?

Mr. Stewart

This is a long-term project, and we have considered it to be in the public interest to get on with other things such as housing, but in due course it will find its place.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that there is a fervent hope in Scotland that if this matter is delayed long enough modern art may have come to its senses?

Mr. Summers

When the building is complete, will my hon. Friend consider approaching my right hon. Friend the Member for Woodford (Sir Winston Churchill), who has a remarkable example in his possession?

Mr. Rankin

Perhaps he does not want to show it.