HC Deb 17 March 1953 vol 512 cc2057-8
5. Dr. Stross

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he hopes to make a statement on the recommendations of the Waverley Committee, on the export of works of art.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have nothing to add to my statement of 9th December, 1952, made in answer to a question by my hon. Friend the Member for Twickenham (Sir E. Keeling).

Dr. Stross

Would the Chancellor bear in mind that as time goes on we are losing precious objects, particularly to our richer neighbours in the United States? Does he remember that Sir Stafford Cripps used to say that in the olden days that did not matter for if there was a reversal of trade in the West those objects came back here? But that will not happen now, and we do not want it to happen. May we have action as soon as possible?

Mr. Butler

If the hon. Gentleman refers to my statement on this Committee, he will see that considerable progress has been made. The reviewing committee has already met and, as the hon. Member knows, it has the right and duty to consider export licences. I think that the matter is really very well in hand.

Mr. Colegate

Would the Chancellor not agree that the best and most efficient method of retaining valuable works of art in this country is to reduce the fantastically high Death Duties operating at the present time?

Mr. Butler

I cannot anticipate my Budget statement.