§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has to alter the arrangements for appointing(a) the chairman and (b) the trustees of national museums; and if he will make a statement. [136851]
§ Mr. Chris Smith[holding answer 6 November 2000]I have issued a consultation paper proposing a number of alternative options for changes to the arrangements for appointing the trustees and chairman of national museums and galleries and I am considering the various responses. I have made clear in the consultation paper that I wish to maintain a flexible, consultative approach but one which provides an effective basis for deciding which changes are appropriate.
§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what discussions he has had with chairmen, trustees and directors of national museums regarding an extension of Prime Ministerial patronage in the field of senior museum appointments; and if he will make a statement. [136852]
§ Mr. Chris Smith[holding answer 6 November 2000]I have been consulting the chairmen, trustees and directors of national museums on a number of alternative proposals to improve the process of public appointments to national museums and galleries. I am carefully considering the responses I have received.