Sir.-The amount of £19million of funding from public resources for the provision of an art gallery may represent a major step in the cultural amenities available in Basingstoke, and the borough council is wise to proceed cautiously.

Perhaps the example of the Victoria and Albert Museum may be followed.

The V&A is responsible for raising part of its yearly revenue from commercial activities. However, in the case of Basingstoke, I feel the primary beneficiaries of profit from such a substantial investment should be the public at large.

If revenues are generated after the style of the V&A, and under control of the borough council, then the whole of Hampshire may benefit.

Financial provision in support of arts and crafts for the young from the proceeds of gift shop sales, seminars, exhibitions and promotions is envisaged, and schools, colleges and educational institutions and the interests of the public may be served.

Given this, the investment of £40,000 is reasonable and should represent a sum recoverable for the public exchequer, wherein the commercial activity of a public art gallery is strictly regulated by the borough council.

International interests may also be fostered through this project.

-Ronald Reardon, Beecham Berry, Basingstoke.