§ 20. Dame Irene Wardasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what action has now been taken to prevent the closure of the British Theatre Museum.
§ 52. Mr. Hugh Jenkinsasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what progress has been made in investigations into the possibility of giving financial aid to the British Theatre Museum; and whether he will consider making an emergency grant to prevent it from closing while permanent arrangements for its future are being made.
§ The Minister of State, Department of Education and Science (Miss Jennie Lee)The possibility of housing the Museum in a London theatre under private auspices is being explored through the good offices of the Chairman of the Arts Council.
§ Dame Irene WardI thank the right hon. Lady for the progress which apparently has been made. Can she indicate when the matter will be finalised?
§ Miss LeeI cannot give a date, but I understand the negotiations are going forward very favourably.
§ Mr. JenkinsIs my right hon. Friend aware that her Answer will be received with some satisfaction? Is she also aware that there is generally expressed feeling in many circles that theatre museum provision is inadequate and that if more adequate provision were made this would be a desirable outcome?
§ Miss LeeI ask my hon. Friend to bear in mind that there are several theatre museums, some private, some public. The whole matter is being looked into. In terms of a first-aid operation, I think that matters are proceeding favourably.