§ Mr. Ronald Bellasked the Secretary to the Treasury what assistance he proposes to give to the Royal College of Music to enable it to build an extension to its existing buildings; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BarberYes. The Royal College of Music, which has for many years been in receipt of an Exchequer grant in aid towards its expenses, needs additional accommodation. The redevelopment of the site of the Commonwealth Institute in South Kensington presents a unique opportunity for an extension of the Royal College of Music to be provided as part of the new buildings to be erected on the site by the Imperial College of Science.
The Royal College of Music has issued a public appeal for £200,000 to finance this project. The Government propose, subject to the approval of Parliament, to make a contribution of £50,000 from the Exchequer. The money will be payable over the years 1963–64 and 1964–65.