§ 26. Mr. Chris Pattenasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what recent representations he has received about the preservation of the Victoria and Albert museum's slide service.
§ Mr. ChannonI have received a large number of representations from a variety of sources. I am determined and confident that the slide service will continue after the end of this month. I propose to make a definite announcement very soon.
§ Mr. PattenDoes my right hon. Friend recognise that his statement will be welcome, because the threats to the future of the slide service have caused a great deal of anxiety in universities, colleges, colleges of art and schools? Will he be clearer about when he will be able to allay anxieties and make a full statement? Does he envisage some other body taking over the responsibilities for the service with an appropriate grant?
§ Mr. ChannonI hope to make an announcement within the next week or two. I accept what my hon. Friend says about the importance of the slide service. I receive an enormous correspondence about it daily. There are a number of alternatives, but I shall not comment further at this stage. I shall bear in mind what my hon. Friend says.