asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what support and encouragement the Government will give to the Royal Armouries Littlecote appeal.

My right hon. Friend welcomes and supports the Royal Armouries in its bid to purchase the collection of civil war uniform and armour at Littlecote house. In the light of the amount of money that the armouries are able either to raise from their public appeal, or find from within their existing budget, he will consider with the trustees what further support he might be able to give.