§ 38. Mr. Fauldsasked the Under-Secretary of State answering in respect of the Arts whether the Minister for the Arts will set up a Rayner/Priestley type of investigation into the use made by the national maritime museum of the £4,101,000 received from the Exchequer for running costs, with particular regard to value for money.
§ Mr. WaldegraveNo.
§ Mr. Fauldsasked the Under-Secretary of State answering in respect of the Arts what advice the Minister for the Arts has sought in connection with the proposal by the trustees to introduce admission charges to the national maritime museum; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaldegraveNone, because under the National Maritime Museum Act 1934 the trustees are empowered to introduce admission charges without needing the Government's consent. The museum does, however, require the Government's permission under the Act to retain any income received and to spend it on approved purposes. This is currently under consideration.