HC Deb 16 May 1922 vol 154 c232
58. Colonel NEWMAN

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of the large sums that are being realised by the sale of historic pictures and works of art either at the hammer or when sold by private treaty and will he consider the levying of a duty on the net proceeds of such sales when the sale is made by the actual owner during his lifetime or within five years of his death?

Sir R. HORNE

I regret that I cannot see my way to adopt this suggestion.

Colonel NEWMAN

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think when a picture like the "Blue Boy" goes to America, the Chancellor of the Exchequer might get some money out of it?

Sir W. DAVISON

Will the right hon. Gentleman give further consideration to the question of an export duty on works of art other than by living artists?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise here.