§ 2. Dr. David Kerrasked the Minister of Public Building and Works what is his policy for the commissioning of new works of art for exhibition on sites and in buildings for which he is responsible.
§ Mr. MellishMy Ministry has on a few occasions commissioned new works of art for exhibition in buildings or on sites. Otherwise such works of art as are displayed are in general existing items purchased out of voted funds or accepted as gifts or on loan.
§ Dr. KerrWill my right hon Friend accept my admiration and congratulations for the courage displayed by his Department in face of often ill-informed criticism about the quality of the work shown on sites for which he is responsible? Will he accept the need for continued patronage of the arts by the commissioning of new works of the kind displayed opposite this House in the shape of the Henry Moore sculpture?
§ Mr. MellishI think that the most effective way I can encourage modern artists is by buying their existing works, and that I shall continue to do, having received advice from the appropriate committees set up to advise me.