§ Mr. Reevesasked the Minister of Works whether he is aware of the success of Son et Lumiére displays in France; and whether he will arrange such a display at one of the historic buildings in his care.
§ Mr MolsonYes. TheDaily Telegraph have offered to introduce Son et Lumiére on behalf of the Ministry of Works. It will take place at Greenwich this summer. They will have the co-operation of Messrs. Harold Holt, Limited, who will undertake the direction, and of Monsieur Robert-Houdin, Conservateur of the Chateau de 9W Chambord, who will produce the spectacle. With the consent of my noble Friend, the First Lord of the Admiralty and the Trustees of the National Maritime Museum, the display will centre on the Queens House and the Royal Naval College.
This enterprise could not have been undertaken at the risk of public funds. The Daily Telegraph, however, have generously agreed to ensure that no financial loss falls on public funds. Any profit will accrue to the Exchequer, and I would propose to devote an equivalent sum to improving the amenities of the Royal Parks. In due course a token Supplementary Estimate will be presented to the House to give formal sanction to the financial arrangements.
I hope that the House will feel that this venture to introduce a new art form to this country deserves encouragement and will welcome it.