HC Deb 18 July 1997 vol 298 cc339-40W
Mr. Gorrie

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will encourage public bodies to commission tapestries for their buildings. [7922]

Mr. Fisher

British crafts makers and artists are among the best in the world and their works can illuminate and enhance our built environment and public spaces. Tapestry is just one form of craftsmaking but can add obvious and immediate value to the experience of public buildings. I know that a splendid tapestry hangs in the office of my hon. Friend the Scottish Office Minister for Health and the Arts. A tapestry will enhance the entrance hall of the new British Library.

Tapestry is not the only medium for public art works: all of us can think of works that have impressed us, whether sculpture, ceramics, ironwork or electronic images. I consider them an excellent investment, in terms of quality of life, for those who commission and build with public money.

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