§ 22. Sir Anthony Meyerasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what progress is being made in obtaining a Royal charter for the Crafts Council.
§ Mr. ChannonI am happy to say that Her Majesty the Queen has now approved the grant of a charter to the Crafts Council.
§ Sir Anthony MeyerIs my right hon. Friend aware that this is extremely good news? Is he further aware of the importance of craft centres in providing a focus for economic activity and the growth of the tourist industry in rural areas, particularly in Wales? Does he agree that craft centres often form the nucleus of a growing economic centre in a remote area?
§ Mr. ChannonYes, I agree that it is very good news for the Crafts Council. It shows how important its work 645 is becoming. I also agree about the importance of craft workshops in rural areas. I hope to visit North Wales soon and perhaps I shall have the opportunity of seeing one. My 646 hon. Friend will also note that part of the grant to the Arts Council is passed to the Welsh Arts Council to promote the work of artist-craftsmen in Wales.