HC Deb 30 November 1967 vol 755 cc611-3
2. Mr. Hooson

asked the Secretary of State for Wales why he accepted the recent registration of a company under the name of Welsh National Theatre Company, in view of the fact that it preempts the right of an official Welsh National Theatre Company to be so called.

Mr. Ifor Davies

My right hon. Friend has no responsibility in the registration of companies. He is, of course, anxious that all concerned should work in harmony to bring about the creation of a national theatre in Wales and the development of a worthy company to occupy it.

Mr. Hooson

As there are extreme misgivings among the supporters of the National Theatre Movement in Wales, will the Minister use his influence, which is considerable, with the sponsors of the company to get them to delete the name "National" from the company's name as it is thought that it is trying to preempt the right to use the name "National Theatre Company"?

Mr. Davies

There appears to be some degree of misunderstanding in the matter, but, on the word "National", I understand that at the meeting of the Continuation Committee last Saturday it was resolved to accept and to reciprocate the offer of co-operation made by the company. It now seems right to wait and see how this offer is received by the National Convention at a meeting to be held shortly.

I also emphasise that my right hon. Friend is interested as vice-president, which office he accepted in perfect good faith, and also in good faith he is expecting that all concerned will co-operate to achieve as quickly as possible what everyone wants, which is a national theatre and a worthy company. My right hon. Friend deplores—[HON. MEMBERS: "Too long."] The point was made and I am entitled to reply to it. I was about to say that my right hon. Friend deplores any difficulties which might delay the realisation of this achievement.

Mr. Speaker

Order. Long answers pre-empt Questions.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

I understand that this is a difficult matter and it is not easy for the Minister to give an answer, but could he reply to this question. As it asks in the Question, does he think in fact that the action which has been taken pre-empts the right of an official Welsh National Theatre Company to be so called?

Mr. Davies

I agree that my previous reply was long, but this is an important matter. The answer is that I do not think it does pre-empt. Emphasis should be on co-operation, joint consultation and a better understanding.

Mr. Hooson

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I give notice that I intend to seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment.