HC Deb 10 May 1906 vol 156 cc1493-4
MR. CLAUDE HAY

I beg to ask the Prime Minister if he can state the attitude of the Government in reference to the bequest to the British Nation of armour and works of art by the late Mr. Stibbert, of Florence.

THE PRIME MINISTER AND FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY (Sir H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN,) Stirling Burghs

I understand that the late Mr. Stibbert's intention to bequeath his collection to the British Nation was notified to the late Government, and gratefully accepted by them. Negotiations with his executors are now proceeding with a view to the fulfilment of his wishes.

MR. CLAUDE HAY

When will the result of the negotiations be made known?

SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

I cannot say.

AN HON. MEMBER

Will the Government urge the trustees of this splendid bequest to the British nation that the curator shall be a British subject? This is a matter of much interest to the community of Florence.

SIR H. CAMPBELL BANNERMAN

I do not know that this Question arises out of the original Question, but I should be glad to give an Answer as far as I have the information at my disposal.

MR. WEIR inquired whether the Government would see to it that the curator was able to speak the Italian language fluently.

SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

There are many British subjects who can speak the Italian language quite as fluently as their own.