HC Deb 18 December 1972 vol 848 cc302-3W
Mr. Money

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether she will take steps to establish a national photographic archive and gallery.

Mrs. Thatcher

Photographs form an essential part of the archive and working material of most if not all museums and galleries and of the British Film Institute. In many fields they are also an important element in public displays. My noble Friend recognises the interest that attaches to the work of the early photographers but considers that it is for each of the national museums and galleries to decide on the relevance of photographs to their function and on the appropriate collecting policy.