COMMENTING on this afternoon's Assembly Government statement on the display of visual art in Wales, Shadow Heritage Minister Paul Davies AM said:

"Showing art is crucial to improving awareness of culture as a nation.

"I'm pleased to see the establishment of a National Gallery remains a government aspiration. It is something Welsh Conservatives have long-called for.

"The establishment of such a gallery would improve cultural tourism and mean it could be associated with a network of smaller galleries throughout Wales

"It would also ensure many works of art currently in storage are exhibited and that many more people are able to gain access to the arts.

"While it is crucial we do establish a National Gallery within Wales I accept this may be difficult in the near future because of financial limitations and the current economic climate."