§ Mr. Kilroy-Silkasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if, in view of the effect that the suspension of the regional services of the Victoria and Albert Museum would have on libraries and museums in the provinces, she will take whatever action is available to her to prevent this happening.
§ Mr. OakesThe director's proposals for effecting staff economies at this museum are being examined. In reaching her decision my right hon. Friend will certainly bear in mind the needs of museums and libraries in the regions.
§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations she has received from local authorities and hon. Members regarding the cut-back in regional services provided by the Victoria and 101W Albert Museum; how many complaints she has received from people in the provinces about the severity of these cuts; if she will review the position; if she will consider giving additional funds for museum services to the regions; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. OakesThere have been nine parliamentary Questions on the future of the regional services of the V and A Museum and representations have been received from about 50 hon. Members and 18 local authorities or their organisations. Representations have also been made by 50 local authority institutions and educational establishments in the provinces and by about 50 other organisations and individuals. In considering the director's proposals my right hon. Friend will bear in mind the points made by my hon. Friend and the representations received.