HC Deb 13 November 1969 vol 791 cc603-4
25. Mr. Channon

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science when he expects the Arts Council's Report on the Theatre to be published.

Miss Jennie Lee

I understand that the Report is now in draft form and may be ready for submission to the Arts Council in December. It is for the Council to decide whether and when it should be published.

Mr. Channon

Does not the right hon. Lady agree that this is a matter of the greatest urgency? There have been long delays which have not been the fault of the Committee, but it is now urgent that we have this report.

Miss Lee

Everyone is awaiting publication. It has been completed. There has been a good deal of work done, but we are now to receive it quite shortly.

Mr. Hugh Jenkins

Is it not desirable that, while the report should certainly come as soon as possible, it should be comprehensive, adequate and fully considered before it is published?

Miss Lee

I agree with that. That is part of the reason for the delay.

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