HC Deb 01 July 1958 vol 590 cc1071-2
42. Mr. Parker

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has yet been able to acquire the Hampton site for the extension of the National Gallery.

Mr. Amory

I have at present nothing to add to the Answer given to the hon. Member by my hon. and learned Friend the Financial Secretary on 12th June.

Mr. Parker

Can the Chancellor ensure that the site is not lost, and that steps will be taken to prevent an unfavourable decision being taken?

Mr. Amory

As far as I know, the Canadian authorities have taken no formal steps to divest themselves of the lease of this site.

Sir G. Nicholson

Is my right hon. Friend aware that he has a great responsibility to posterity in this matter, and that this is a chance which certainly will not recur? Will he think very carefully before rejecting this opportunity?

Mr. Amory

My hon. Friend will agree that it is sometimes extraordinarily difficult to balance up one's responsibilities to posterity with one's responsibilities to one's contemporaries.

Mr. Gaitskell

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the very widespread feeling, in the House and in the country, that this opportunity of acquiring the site for the National Gallery should not be missed?

Mr. Amory

I understand that fully.