§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what discussions he has had with the trustees of the British Museum concerning legal action taken by the museum in relation to the provision of French stone for building work on the South Portico. [140179]
§ Mr. Chris SmithAny decision on whether to take legal action in relation to the provision of French stone is a matter for the British Museum. I have not discussed this with the trustees but I have been advised by the British Museum that they have taken legal advice. I am informed that as a result they have held back payments to the contractor. They will consider the grounds for legal action in the light of the conclusions of the report by PricewaterhouseCoopers due in December.
§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what measures are being taken by the British Museum to recover moneys owed by Easton Masonry Company (Portland) Ltd. [140180]
§ Mr. Chris SmithI am advised by the British Museum that they have withheld payments under the contract amounting to £300,000.