BRITISH MUSEUM FUNDING

Early day motion 1459, tabled 18 June 2002 by Lord Allan of Hallam (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 42 members.

That this House acknowledges that the British Museum is one of Britain's finest architectural landmarks and visitor attractions, housing a vast collection of art and antiquities from ancient and living cultures since its foundation nearly 250 years ago; expresses its grave concern that it is currently experiencing financial difficulties with deficits now amounting to ú5 million and as a result might have to close some of its galleries for the first time since its foundation; recognises that central grants have fallen by 30 per cent. in real terms during the past decade; and calls on the Government to substantially increase investment in the British Museum, bearing in mind the cost of its maintenance of free admission over the past two decades, so that it can remain a centrepiece of the museum world.

Signatures by party: Labour 23, Liberal Democrat 14, Conservative 3, DUP 1, UUP 1.