§ Mr. KINGasked whether the hon. Gentleman's attention has been called to the sale of the Globe Room of the Reindeer Hotel, Banbury, to an American who intends to transport it to the United States; and whether any funds are available for the purchase by the nation of such objects of historic and artistic value as this room?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI have seen the statements in the Press with regard to this sale. Apart from funds at the disposal of the museums there are no public funds available for the purchase of pannelling and similar objects. The hon. Member is no doubt aware of the existence of private societies for the preservation of antiquities.
§ Mr. KINGWill the hon. Gentleman consider the propriety of placing an Export Duty on these works of art?