Written question asked by Lord Risby (Conservative) on Monday, 13 July 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 20 July 1998. It was answered by Lord Smith of Finsbury (Labour) on Monday, 20 July 1998 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Dept for Culture Media and Sport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what plans the British Library has for the charging of readers fees for (a) commercial and (b) non-commercial users. - (Holding answer 16 July 1998).

Answer: Mr. Spring: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans the British Library has for the charging of readers fees for (a) commercial and (b) non-commercial users. [50743] Mr. Chris Smith: [holding answer 16 July 1998]: The British Library has no immediate plans to introduce charges for access to the reading rooms but is currently consulting its users on a broad range of issues, including introduction of charges. Any proposal by the Board to introduce charges would require my approval and would be considered in the light of all relevant factors, including the views of readers.

Secondary information