§ Mr. K. Robinsonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to what extent the provision through the Arts Council of earmarked funds for the Old Vic, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and for provincial theatres marks the end of the principle of allowing the Arts Council a free hand in distributing its grant.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydI cannot answer this question precisely at this stage. It raises an important point which I shall have very much in mind in considering, after I have received the Arts Council's proposals, the arrangements to be made for governing future expenditure in this field. I can, however, assure the hon. Member that I shall depart as little as possible from the general principle that the Arts Council remains free to allocate as it sees fit the funds which the Government makes available to it.
§ Mr. Hannanasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he expects to receive from the Arts Council their proposals for the allocation of increased grants and contributions for existing and new theatres.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydI feel sure that the Arts Council will waste no time in considering this important question, but I cannot state a definite date.