HC Deb 11 May 1981 vol 4 cc479-80
23. Mr. Cormack

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science when he will be in a position to reply to the Select Committee report on the arts.

Mr. Channon

The recommendations in the Committee's interim report on works of art require consultation among a number of Departments, but the Government will, of course, aim to reply as soon as practicable.

Mr. Cormack

I thank my right hon. Friend for that reply. May I urge him to have discussions as quickly as possible? Will he ensure that we have a reply before the House rises for the Summer Recess? Is he aware that this important report is unanimous?

Mr. Channon

The report is important, and it is a great tribute to the members of the Committee that it is unanimous. I shall do my best to accede to my hon. Friends request, although the remedy is not entirely in my hands.

Mr. Faulds

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that he will enjoy all-party support if he can deliver Government decisions along the lines of those sensible and constructive recommendations in the report; and that ready acceptance of the recommendations would meet with a especial welcome from the National Art Collections Fund, which has a long and splendid record in helping public acquisitions in galleries?

Mr. Channon

I agree with the hon. Gentleman's latter remarks. I note his support for the report, which will strengthen the hand of those who advocate its total adoption. I shall attempt to meet the wishes of the House.