asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will support the central appeal being launched by the Royal College of Music; and if he will make a statement.

The Government support the Royal College's centenary appeal for funds to improve its facilities. On behalf of the taxpayer, and subject to Parliamentary approval, the Government have agreed to provide up to £200,000 against a matching contribution from other sources, to meet the cost of work undertaken in 1982–83 as a result of the appeal.