§ Mr. LoughtonTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many national museums he expects to retain free admission as a result of Budget proposals; and for how long. [36778]
§ Mr. Darling[holding answer 30 March 1998]: Five national museums and galleries will retain free admission for the financial year 1998–99 following the creation of a Challenge Fund to promote access and education initiatives in museums. Extra money has also been made available for museums in Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. Future levels of funding will be announced as part of the outcome of the Comprehensive Spending Review.