§ Lord Harrisonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether the London String of Pearls Millennium Festival is proving to be a success; and whether they will encourage such national treasures along the River Thames to consider opening to the public on a permanent basis. [HL4220]
§ Lord McIntosh of HaringeyThe London String of Pearls Millennium Festival, to which the Millennium Commission awarded a grant of £50,000, is proving to be a great success and will continue through to the end of the year. Highlights so far include an exhibition of the Goldsmith's Company's private collection of 20th Century Silver, Gold, Jewellery and Art medals; the public opening of Custom House, and the "Voters of the Future" exhibition in Westminster Hall.
Many of the landmark buildings involved in the Festival, such as the Tate Galleries and the Globe are open to the public all year round. It would clearly be difficult for working buildings such as the Royal Courts of Justice and Lambeth Palace to be open to the public all year round beyond that access which is normally allowed. The Government do, however, agree that their buildings should be accessible to the public as often as possible and they support such initiatives as Heritage Open Days.