Science Museum

Derek Wyatt
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will take steps to increase the operational independence of the Science museum.

Barbara Follett
[holding answer 20 April 2009]: In common with other national museums, the Science Museum already has a high level of operational independence from Government, with its own director, management board and board of trustees. The museum has also established a trading company which allows it to operate on a more commercial basis. We have regular dialogue with the museum on a range of issues, including how we can continue to find more flexible ways of working, while maintaining appropriate good practice for a body in receipt of Government funding.