§ 23. Mr. Cormackasked 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. ChannonThe 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. CormackI 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. ChannonThe 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. FauldsIs 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. ChannonI 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.