HC Deb 04 February 1960 vol 616 c1205
20. Captain Pilkington

asked the Minister of Education what contribution he is prepared to make to assist the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation in measures being undertaken to safeguard the great temple at Abu Simbel when the Aswan High Dam is built.

Sir D. Eccles

The Government are not contemplating any contribution from public funds for this purpose, but no doubt there will be opportunities for voluntary contributions to the preservation of these historic monuments.

Captain Pilkington

Will my right hon. Friend think about this matter again? From an international point of view this monument is one of the greatest monuments in the world. Surely, from the point of view of the history of mankind, it ought to be preserved.

Sir D. Eccles

I agree, but it is not only this monument which is involved. There are many other archaeological objects which are of great value. But I do not think that this is a case in which a Government contribution is required.

Mr. Greenwood

Will the righ hon. Gentleman consider addressing an appeal to industrialists to raise a fund for this and similar purposes?