§ LORD STRABOLGIMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the second Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ The Question was as follows.
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government why they have rejected a proposal by the Sadler's Wells Opera Company, now based at the Coliseum, to change its name to the National Opera Company.
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE, DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY: (THE EARL OF LIMERICK)My Lords, the application by Sadler's Wells Trust (Coliseum) Limited for a change of name has not been rejected. However, my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry has reservations on the desirability of the name currently being sought. The company 1283 has been invited to discuss the matter with Ministers.
§ LORD STRABOLGIMy Lords, I thank the noble Earl for that reply. May I ask the Government whether they will therefore consider other suggestions, and whether they consider that there is certainly a strong case for a change of name, in view of the changed circumstances?
§ THE EARL OF LIMERICKMy Lords, of course we will consider suggestions, and my right honourable friend will consider them, but his power is limited to withholding approval. It is not for him to suggest a name. A meeting has been arranged at which this matter will be discussed.