HC Deb 25 June 1936 vol 313 cc1976-7W
Mr. MARKHAM

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what is the annual cost of the Standing Commission on Museums and Galleries; and whether any specific questions have been referred to them for decision since 1934?

Mr. W. S. MORRISON

As regards the first part of the question the expenses of the Standing Commission for the financial year 1935–36 amounted to £51 3s. 3d. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative. In addition to formal references, the advice of the commission is sought informally from time to time on a variety of matters.

Mr. MARKHAM

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury in what way and to what extent the Standing Commission on Museums has promoted co-operation between national institutions and provincial institutions?

Mr. W. S. MORRISON

I would refer my hon. Friend to the first report of the Standing Commission, dated May, 1933, a copy of which I am sending to him, and particularly to paragraphs 3 (1) and (2) and 6 (3). Since that report was issued, certain proposals for the extension of loan facilities to local museums, art galleries, etc., and regarding the grants in aid of local museums and art galleries borne on the Vote for the Board of Education have been submitted by the board to the commission, and the commission's recommendations in regard to those proposals and for improved accommodation facilities in the Circulation Department of the Victoria and Albert Museum have been put into effect.

Mr. MARKHAM

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will make the annual reports of the Standing Commission on Museums available to Members?

Mr. W. S. MORRISON

The Standing Commission are not by their terms of reference required to make annual reports. Their first general report was issued in May, 1933, and was published by the Stationery Office. Any subsequent report of a general character will also be published by the Stationery Office, and will be available to hon. Members under the ordinary rules affecting non-Parliamentary publications.