HC Deb 13 March 1967 vol 743 cc43-4
46. Dame Irene Ward

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he will make a statement on the future of the National Reference Library of Science and Invention with a view to eliminating the uncertainty of the Trustees of the British Museum as to the policy of Her Majesty's Government in this matter.

The Minister of State, Department of Education and Science (Miss Jennie Lee)

The provision of a new building for the Library is a matter for the Minister of Public Building and Works, with whom I am in close touch on the various problems which arise. The question of the space required is under review by a working party representing the Museum, the Treasury, the Ministry of Public Building and Works and my Department.

Dame Irene Ward

Why, when I put the Question down for answer by the Minister of Public Building and Works, was it transferred to the right hon. Lady, if she has no responsibility?

Miss Lee

Perhaps the explanation is that the Ministry of Public Building and Works is responsible for fabric and my Ministry is responsible for content. The hon. Lady is well known to have an interest in both, so there is always a doubt about whether such a Question from her should go to one or other Ministry.

47. Dame Irene Ward

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he has considered the criticisms of the Government contained in the 1966 Report of the Trustees of the British Museum; why Her Majesty's Government have failed to meet their obligations; and if he will make a statement.

Miss Jennie Lee

The Report reveals encouraging progress in staffing, acquisitions and physical reconstruction and improvement. The next few years should see considerable further developments. On the question of the fulfilment of Her Majesty's Government's obligations, I would point out to the hon. Lady that the net vote to the Museum has almost doubled between 1963–64 and 1967–68. The plans for the new Library approved in 1964 were subject to consultation with the authorities concerned. A protest has been received and this is now being considered.