§ Mrs. Clwydasked the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations the National Museum of Wales had with his Department regarding the proposed conditions prior to the arrangements for the forthcoming exhibitions in Japan; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsMy Department was consulted in October 1985 at the time the arrangements which had been made by the then Director and Keeper of Art Earlier in the year were considered by the Museum Council. It was pointed out to the museum that the matter was entirely one for it.
§ Mrs. Clwydasked the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received regarding the proposed exhibition in Japan of items from the National Museum of Wales; of these, how many were in favour and how many against; and if he will make a statement.
359W
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsTwo; one expressed no particular view, the other expressed concern.
§ Mrs. Clwydasked the Secretary of State for Wales if, in view of the part played by members of its staff in securing the arrangements for the exhibition of items from the National Museum of Wales in Japan, he will initiate an inquiry into the management of the art department of the National Museum of Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsUnder the terms of the Museum's royal charter the council is responsible for the management of the museum and the superintendence and control of the director and all other officers. It would not be appropriate for me to interfere in these functions. At the same time it is generally recognised that there are problems about housing the visual arts in Wales and I have appointed a small group of experts to inquire into this and report to me with recommendations. I shall write to the hon. Lady and place a copy of my letter in the Library.