§ Mr. Cyril Smithasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she has been able to offer the Elton Collection to the Greater Manchester Council; and what considerations have led to a decision in this matter.
§ Mr. Oakes:My noble Friend the Minister of State with responsibility for the arts is awaiting the advice of the Standing Commission on Museums and Galleries on the most suitable destination of this collection. A decision will not be taken until this advice has been considered. Factors to be taken into account include the wishes of the executors of the late Sir Arthur Elton's estate, the facilities for display, conservation, study and security which can be offered by the museums which have expressed an interest, and the relationships of the objects with the collections in those museums and with their localities.