National Library of Wales (Gwysaney Collection)

HC Deb 11 June 1959 vol 606 cc117-8W

Mr. Llewellyn

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will make a special grant to the National Library of Wales in order that the purchase of the Gwysaney collection of manuscripts, which are part of the Welsh national heritage, may be facilitated.

Mr. Simon

Yes. The National Library of Wales has the opportunity to purchase from Colonel Davies Cooke, the owner of the Gwysaney Collection, certain manuscripts including the twelfth century Book of Llandaff, which is the most important surviving mediaeval record of the Welsh Church. The price of this group of manuscripts is £2,000. The Council of the National Library is able to contribute £1,000 with the generous help of the Friends of the National Libraries and the Pilgrim Trust.

In view of the importance of this acquisition my right hon. Friend has agreed, subject to the approval of Parliament, to make a special grant from the Exchequer of £1,000.