HC Deb 04 February 1971 vol 810 c412W
13. Mrs. Doris Fisher

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many objections or petitions about the proposed introduction of entry charges to art galleries she has received to the latest convenient date.

Mr. van Straubenzee

Up to Monday, 25th January, a total of 289 letters of objection to museum charges had been received in the Department of Education and Science. Of these 36 were on behalf of various organisations and 19 took the form of petitions bearing between them 1,764 signatures.

Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what changes she proposes to make in the application of the original decision to charge for entrance into museums and galleries as a result of the discussions she has had with their representatives.

Mr. van Straubenzee

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given today in reply to the Question by the right hon. Member for Vauxhall (Mr. Strauss).

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Educaiton and Science whether she has received the communication from Mrs. Marjorie Helps, the secretary of Newham Arts Council, protesting against the imposition of entrance fees into the British Museum, exhibitions and national libraries; and what was the nature of her reply.

Mr. van Straubenzee

No record can be found of the receipt of the communication referred to.