§ 17. Mr. K. Robinsonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what offers have been made to the Treasury by the executors of the Duke of Westminster's estate in respect of acceptance of the Rubens' altarpiece, The Adoration of the Magi, in lieu of death duties under the provisions of the Finance Act, 1956.
Mr. AmoryNone, Sir. But the trustees of the Duke of Westminster's Estate have from the outset been aware of the Government's willingness to consider accepting this painting as a preeminent work of art under Section 34 (1) of the 1956 Finance Act.
§ Mr. RobinsonWhilst regretting that the executors have not thought fit to make a direct approach to the Treasury, may I ask if the Chancellor will give an undertaking that should this picture be sold tomorrow to a foreign buyer he will do his part within all reasonable limits to secure this outstanding masterpiece for the nation? Is he aware that this is probably the last opportunity the National Gallery will have of acquiring any Rubens altarpiece?
Mr. AmoryIf this picture were sold at an auction and bought by a foreign buyer it would be for the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art to consider the matter and, if it thought proper, to make a recommenda- 1008 tion to me. If it did so, as always, I should consider it very carefully.
Mr. JegerWill the Chancellor bear in mind that we are being rather greedy about this picture? Have we not hundreds of valuable and beautiful pictures in the National Gallery already stored away out of sight? Would it not be for the benefit of artistically underdeveloped countries such as America to have a few beautiful works of art?