HC Deb 15 May 1884 vol 288 cc446-7
SIR ROBERT PEEL

asked the First Lord of the Treasury, Whether his attention has been drawn to the manner in which the President and Council of the Royal Academy are applying the fund bequeathed by Sir Francis Chantrey "for the purchase of works of fine art," in the words of the sculptor's bequest, "of the highest merit;" and, whether steps cannot be taken for giving effect, in the interest of English art, to the express wishes of the founder?

MR. GLADSTONE

Since my right hon. Friend put this Question on the Paper, and since I gave a provisional answer to it, I have had a communication from the President of the Royal Academy, from which I find that the trust to the Royal Academy in relation to Sir Francis Chantrey's works is of an absolute character, and does not allow of any interference whatever from without, other than what may belong to the general provisions of law. Consequently Her Majesty's Government have no power whatever in respect to the matter. I have no doubt my right hon. Friend has made inquiries into the matter; but I am bound to say that nothing has come to my knowledge which would lead the Government to believe that there has been any abuse or any neglect in the administration of this fund.

SIR ROBERT PEEL

asked where the pictures were that had been purchased by this trust?

MR. GLADSTONE

I am not able to say. Having no power to interfere in the matter, I am not able to give an answer.

DR. FARQUHARSON

Is it not the fact that the pictures are now on view at the South Kensington Museum?

SIR ROBERT PEEL

asked whether the right hon. Gentleman would grant an unopposed Return, for which he proposed to move, relating to this subject?

MR. GLADSTONE

said, the Government could assent to the issue of a Return; but he was afraid they had no power to make an answer to such a Return.