Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Lord Crickhowell (Conservative). It was answered on Wednesday, 8 July 2009.

Museums, Libraries and Archives Council

Question: My Lords, on the question of turnaround, could the Minister comment on the fact that the art market seems to be so anxious? I understand that, at the moment, almost all of these documents are handled and turned around within five days—and a very high proportion of them within 24 hours. Is the Minister satisfied that that will continue to be achieved when the move to Birmingham is made?

Answer: My Lords, I can be absolutely categorical about that. I think the outstanding anxiety is where those licences are required within 24 hours—the same day—and this is the case in fewer than 1 per cent of cases. In those exceptional cases, it is anticipated that the office in Birmingham will be able to offer a service—while certainly a few hours longer than one based in London under any courier system—which will cope with same-day issuing.

Secondary information