If she will take steps to promote awareness of common Celtic heritage in regions of the United Kingdom.

My hon. Friend will be aware that although the Department for Culture, Media and Sport does not directly sponsor common Celtic heritage, many of our sponsored bodies do; for example, the BBC's royal charter requires it to represent the UK, its nations, regions and communities.

I am slightly disappointed by the Minister's reply. His Department needs to realise that Celtic heritage is not exclusive to Scotland, Ireland and Wales; England has a rich Celtic heritage, particularly in areas such as Northumberland and Cornwall. The English language dictionary has a high proportion of input from the Celtic language, and our own city, in these contemporary times, is full of Celtic people. The Department ought to do much more to reflect that in its work and endeavours, and not see it as a matter purely for the other countries, but a matter for England as well.

Far be it from me to disappoint my hon. Friend, but he makes a good point. I am happy to write to the Arts Council and take it up on his behalf.

I commend Andrew Mackinlay on his excellent question, and remind him that the language that evolved into Welsh was once spoken across the whole of the United Kingdom, including Thurrock, so does not he think it a little strange that the Foreign Office language-learning department can teach Members virtually every single language in the world, except for the language of heaven—Welsh? Does the Minister think that should be rectified?

I take note of the hon. Gentleman's lecture and will continue to reflect on his points, but I suggest that he also takes them up at Welsh questions.

St. Fagans museum of Welsh Life promotes Celtic culture through a vast array of buildings, artefacts and furniture. Such museums play an important part in displaying Celtic heritage, not only in Wales, but across the UK. Does the Minister agree that it is important that our museums remain free to enter, so that Celtic culture can be appreciated wherever it is available, in whichever museums?

My hon. Friend tempts me into a very important area. I could talk about renaissance in the regions, but as she raises the issue of free entry to museums—a matter that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will deal with rather convincingly in a moment—I shall say simply that we continue to reject totally the policy of the Conservative party.