§ 31. Mr. Jegerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has now concluded his discussions with the Arts Council on the proposal to build a National Theatre; and whether he is in a position to make a statement.
Mr. AmoryI have exchanged views with the Arts Council on this matter but am not yet in a position to make a statement.
§ Mr. JegerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that I put down this Question precisely in order to give him the opportunity to make his last appearance here a great occasion? Would not he reconsider this matter between now and tomorrow morning and, if possible, mike a special announcement that he has agreed that a National Theatre shall at last he built on the South Bank? Is he aware that the London County Council is holding on to a very suitable site for this theatre, but will not hold or to it for ever? Will the Government mike up their mind very quickly?
Mr. AmoryI assure the hon. Gentleman that, as long as I am in my present position, this will not be out of my thoughts day or night. I should like to say that there are a great many competing projects for the resources available and that this is not an easy decision to reach.