HC Deb 14 March 1960 vol 619 cc920-1
30. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how many times the Advisory Committee on the Selection of Low Price Books for Overseas has met; and how many titles it has so far recommended for selection.

Dr. Hill

In full session once, with a second full session arranged shortly. There have, of course, been very many informal consultations and discussions as well. They are now studying the numerous suggestions received, and a volume of evidence from overseas, on suitable titles. Their first recommendations on titles will follow this study.

Mr. Thomson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that that is really very disappointing and very unsatisfactory progress? Is he aware that after the original announcement of this scheme in July last year we ought to have gone a great deal farther than that by this time? Is he aware that my information is that he is completely bogged down in advisory and Departmental committees? Will he get some action on this matter?

Dr. Hill

I am in no sense bogged down by advisory and Departmental committees. The Advisory Committee on the selection of titles has an immense task to do, particularly at the outset. It has received a wealth of advice from this country and, indeed, from all over the world and it is doing the important preliminary task of sifting that advice, a necessary process before it recommends titles.

31. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster when the first titles in his scheme for low-priced books for overseas are expected to be available in overseas territories.

Dr. Hill

Towards the end of this year.

Mr. Thomson

Is the Minister aware that he told the House in February that he expected that he would distribute 2 million titles by the end of this year? Is he now saying that there is no chance of achieving that object now?

Dr. Hill

I cannot foretell, but following the selection of titles there is very substantial work to be done in negotiations with the publishers, as the hon. Member will appreciate. I shall do everything to speed this work, but the preliminary work on the selection of titles is taking a great deal of time, and quite naturally so.

Mr. Thomson

On a point of order. In view of the very unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment.