§ SIR ROPER LETHBRIDGEI beg to ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been drawn to the announcement of the sale by public auction next month of the most complete collection in existence of the famous Cosway Miniatures; and whether any arrangement would be sanctioned by the Treasury, under which these beautiful works of art might be preserved to the nation?
§ MR. GOSCHENNo proposals have been made to the Government by any of their advisers in these matters with respect to the Cosway Miniatures. The Government have not been approached in the matter by the Trustees of the National Gallery with a view of placing funds at their disposal.
§ MR. C. GRAHAMWill the right hon. Gentleman make further inquiries into the matter, or some of these valuable historical miniatures will be taken off to Texas or somewhere?
§ MR. GOSCHENI think that the notice which has been taken in the House will draw attention to the matter.