§ 42. Mr. KnapmanTo ask the Minister for the Arts what steps he is taking to encourage cultural exchanges with the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
§ Mr. LuceThe majority of cultural exchanges with the USSR take place within the framework of the Anglo-Soviet cultural agreement. The memorandum of understanding signed by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister at the time of her visit to Moscow last year has helped to provide a further impetus for such activity. I shall be making an official visit to the Soviet Union next month and shall do what I can to encourage further exchanges.
§ Mr. KnapmanDoes my right hon. Friend agree that such exchanges and visits help the cause of world peace and detente? Can he give any details of likely exchanges over the next few months?
§ Mr. LuceThere is no doubt that arts and culture help to break down national barriers, because in so many areas culture does not know or understand those barriers—it goes beyond that. Therefore, exchanges between the Soviet Union and this country in the performing arts and heritage should be warmly welcomed. The National Theatre is about to tour the Soviet Union, and arrangements are being made for the exchange of exhibitions between museums in this country and the Soviet Union.