HC Deb 29 October 1957 vol 575 cc15-7
31. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what arrangements he is making to ensure that the National Gallery of Scotland receives a reasonable share of works of art accepted in satisfaction of Estate Duty.

on the mainland of Orkney and Shetland and in the outlying islands which are without electricity, and which have been promised it for some time, and that the people there are very concerned to know whether, these being important farming areas, they are likely to receive it?

Mr. Macpherson

Yes, Sir, that is one of the matters under consideration.

34. Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the name, age, date and period of appointment of each of the present members of the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board.

Mr. N. Macpherson

I shall, with permission, circulate the information in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

In the meantime, does not my hon. Friend think that the time has come for the appointment of younger members to this Board?

Mr. Macpherson

There are three members of this Board who are in their 40's.

Mr. Nabarro

Is my hon. Friend aware that the chairman of the Board is 75—much too old?

Following is the information:

Mr. N. Macpherson

My right hon. Friend is keeping in touch with my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer on this matter, and I can assure the hon. Member that the interests of the National Galleries of Scotland will not be overlooked.

Mr. Thomson

What is the difficulty about this matter? Why cannot a straightforward statement of principle be made now, that the Scottish National Art Gallery will have its proper share of these works of art which come into the possession of the nation? Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is serious concern in Scotland at the fact that the last donation that came in this way was grabbed entirely by the National Gallery in London?

Mr. Macpherson

Yes, Sir, I am aware of that, but the hon. Gentleman has been in touch with my right hon. Friend, and my right hon. Friend told him that this was a matter of principle which was under consideration, and that is still the case.