HC Deb 19 March 1907 vol 171 cc670-1
MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury whether some steps can be taken to improve the quality of the photographs sold at the National Gallery, and to insure that copies of the principal masterpieces are procurable.

MR. RUNCIMAN

I am informed that there is at present no official sale of photographs of National Gallery pictures, but that information is officially given as to where the best photographs may be obtained, and this information will be conspicuously posted in the entrance hall as soon as the re-decoration is complete. The sale of reproductions is under the consideration of the trustees.

MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

But is it not the fact that photographs are sold now in the National Gallery?

MR. CHIOZZA MONEY (Paddington, N.)

Is it not the fact that there is a private stall for which no rent is paid—not an official stall—at which the photographs complained of are sold?

MR. RUNCIMAN

If hon. Gentlemen will put down a Question as to this private stall, I will endeavour to answer it.

MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Has the hon. Gentleman no information as to the private stall?

MR. RUNCIMAN

Only what I have given to the House.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL (Donegal, W.)

Letthe hon. Gentleman go and see it for himself.