§ Mr. ROBERT SMITHasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that in the year 1929–30 the Exchequer only contributed towards the expenses of the National Library of Scot land the sum of £1,895, while for the same period the amount provided for the National Library of Wales amounted to £25,333; and, if so, will he take steps to see that these two institutions are put on a more equitable footing?
§ Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCEProvision for all libraries and museums is made on the basis of an examination of the necessary expenditure and the income of the institution according to the varying circumstances. The estimated gross expenditure from Votes on maintaining the National Library of Scotland in 1929 is £7,033, but in accordance with the directions given in Section 10 of the National Library Scotland Act, 1925, actual issues will be reduced by appropriating the endowment income of £5,138 in aid of the Vote. The maintenance grant provided for the National Library of Wales is £17,000 and, in addition, a special building grant of £8,333 is made this year. The Government have incurred heavy commitments in connection with the pro vision of new accommodation for the National Libary for Scotland in future and my right hon. Friend is unable to accept the suggestion that the arrangements are inequitable.