HC Deb 27 June 1972 vol 839 cc1182-4
Q1. Mr. Leslie Huckfield

asked the Prime Minister what part he proposes to play in the celebrations for Great Britain's entry to the European Economic Community now being arranged by Lord Goodman's Committee.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Edward Heath)

I look forward to being present at a number of functions which are being arranged.

Mr. Huckfield

Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that the Prime Minister personally conducting a version of Sullivan's "Lost Chord" might be a much more appropriate requiem for the present Government? Does he recollect the words?—[Interruption.] I could sing them if hon. Members would prefer that. Does the Prime Minister recollect the words? They are—[HON. MEMBERS: "Reading."]. They are: I knew not what I was playing, Or what I was dreaming of. But—[HON. MEMBERS: "Reading."]. They continue: But I struck one chord of music, Like the sound of a great Amen.

The Prime Minister

As London is now the greatest musical capital in the world, as London has the best theatre in the world, as our provinces enjoy some of the best artistic performances in the world, and as this country is putting on quite the best art exhibitions in the world, which are to be supplemented in January by some of the greatest contributors in the world, I see no reason why hon. Gentlemen on the Opposition benches should continue to knock the artistic life of this country.

Mr. Sydney Chapman

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there is a feeling in the West Midlands in general and among the citizens of Birmingham in particular that the best way we can celebrate our entry into Europe is to have confirmation from the Prime Minister that the national exhibition centre will be sited at Bickenhill near Birmingham and that construction work on this centre will start in the autumn at the latest?

The Prime Minister

I congratulate my hon. Friend on his ingenuity in bring- ing this matter into the Question. This is under discussion between the Government and the Birmingham Corporation.

Mr. Shore

Is the Prime Minister aware that the feeling in the country is hardly one which wishes to celebrate entry into Europe on 1st January? Many people consider that this is not a matter to be celebrated. After the events of the past week, when we have tasted the first bitter fruits of European agreements will he call the whole thing off?

The Prime Minister

I do not accept that the country is as miserable as the right hon. Gentleman.