§ 11. Mr. Longdenasked the Minister of Public Building and Works if he is aware that the accommodation and facilities for research workers in the Public Record Office are inadequate; and what proposals he has for improving them.
§ Mr. MellishYes, Sir. Last year, my Department provided an extra 40 places for readers in the main building. This year, a further 50 places for readers and storage space for records are being provided, in premises nearby in Lincoln's Inn 8 Fields. The photographic accommodation in the main building is being improved. The longer-term needs of the Public Record Office are being studied.
§ Mr. LongdenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this building houses what is perhaps the finest collection of historical documents in the world and that during the summer months students from all over the world converge upon it only to find primitive accommodation for reading and writing? May I therefore thank him for his Answer, which will give much pleasure?
§ Mr. MellishThe hon. Gentleman and the House will be interested to know that the work which we are doing in the photographic department will cost £24,000 and that other work will cost £9,000. I am having discussions with the officials of the Public Record Office to see what more I can do to help.