HC Deb 20 June 1961 vol 642 cc1146-7
6. Mr. F. Noel-Baker

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland under what conditions the Esso Petroleum Company, or their advertising agents, are permitted to reproduce pictures in the National Galleries of Scotland for advertising purposes.

Mr. Brooman-White

A fee is charged for the use of photographic reproductions of which the copyright subsists in the trustees, and such reproductions must bear an acknowledgment to the National Galleries of Scotland. These conditions were complied with by the advertising agents for the Esso Petroleum Company.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Will the Joint Under-Secretary give us some details of the size of the fee? Would he agree that so long as the oil companies are permitted to spend vast sums on advertising at the expense of consumers, it is not a bad thing that they should do it by reproducing works of art? At least, the owners—in this case, Scotland—should jolly well get their money's worth. Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that they are?

Mr. Brooman-White

The fixing of the fees is a matter for the trustees of the Gallery.

Mr. Noel-Baker

What are the fees?