HC Deb 27 April 1972 vol 835 c328W
Mr. Faulds

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what discussions took place between the Paymaster-General and the boards of trustees of the national museums in relation to undertakings on admission charges; and if he will list the boards concerned.

Mr. van Straubenzee

Following the announcement of the scheme for admission charges in May, 1971, my noble Friend wrote to the chairmen of all the trustee bodies in England concerned seeking their views on the implementation of the charging scheme. My right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Scotland and Wales consulted similarly. The list of boards concerned is as follows:

England:

  • British Museum.
  • British Museum (Natural History).
  • Imperial War Museum.
  • London Museum.
  • National Gallery.
  • National Maritime Museum.
  • National Portrait Gallery.
  • Tate Gallery.
  • Wallace Collection.

Scotland:

  • National Gallery of Scotland.
  • National Museum of Antiquities of Scotland.
  • Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.
  • Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

Wales:

  • National Museum of Wales.

Mr. Faulds

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science by what percentage the appropriation in aid of the vote for the national museums and galleries is to be reduced from April, 1973, in so far as concerns the proceeds from admission charges.

Mr. van Straubenzee

The Estimates for 1973–74 are due to be prepared this autumn.