§ 27. Mr. Warbeyasked the Minister of Education what response has been made to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation's appeal for assistance in the preservation of Nubian archaeological treasures endangered by the Aswan Dam project.
§ Sir D. EcclesI would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Poole (Captain Pilkington) on 4th February. I was glad to learn that the Duke of Devonshire had agreed to serve as the United Kingdom Member of the Committee of Patrons for the appeal and I hope that there will be a British member on the International Action Committee 660 which will be advising the Director-General on the organisation of his campaign.
§ Mr. WarbeyThe right hon. Gentleman knows that that reply was a negative one. Is he not aware that an unparalleled combined effort is required in a short space of three or four years' time if the unique archaeological and architectural treasures of Philae, Abu Simbel, and other sites in this area are to be preserved against inundation and destruction? Surely the Government ought to make a contribution themselves towards this combined effort by U.N.E.S.C.O.
§ Sir D. EcclesWe take the view that this is not a case for Government contribution, but we should be glad to see any persons who are interested in these very remarkable monuments making private subscriptions.