§ 23. Mr. Murphyasked the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State answering in respect of the Arts when the Minister for the Arts expects to announce a decision on the commencement of the building of the next stage of the British Library; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaldegraveMy right hon. and noble Friend expects to make a decision on the building of the next stage of the British Library by the autumn of this year.
§ Mr. MurphyDoes my hon. Friend agree that such a major project as this ought to have a full commitment to future funding by Her Majesty's Government?
§ Mr. WaldegraveThe Government are committed to the first stages of this major development. It will take many years to complete. There will be certain necessary review periods during the course of the project, but by making an initial commitment the Government have shown their attitude to the project as a whole.