HC Deb 08 July 1902 vol 110 c1080
MR. BLACK (Banffshire)

I beg to ask Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will say what notice was given to the Board of Manufacturers for Scotland of the Government's dissatisfaction with their management of the National Gallery in Scotland; and will he state the constitution of the body which is to undertake the projected inquiry, and its scope.

THE CHANCELLOR or THE EXCHEQUER (Sir M. HICKS BEACH,) Bristol, W.

My statement the other day was rather an expression of opinion that the constitution of the Board of Manufacturers was not suited for the management of a National Gallery, than of dissatisfaction with the Board. I am not aware that any communication to the latter effect has been addressed to the Board. I am now in communication with the Secretary for Scotland as to the nature and scope of the inquiry into the subject.

MR. BLACK

Will the Committee be a Departmental one, or a Committee of this House? I ask that in view of the eminence of the men constituting this Board.

SIR M. HICKS BEACH

I have said all I have to say on the subject.