§ 7. Dr. Strossasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will implement the recommendations of the Reviewing Committee on Export of Works of Art in its most recent report; and how soon he will establish the fund of £1 million for this purpose.
§ Mr. GreenMy right hon. Friend has carefully considered the Committee's recommendations but sees serious objections in principle to such a fund. In particular, it would require special legislation which would have the effect of transferring control of this expenditure from this House to a Government Department.
§ Dr. StrossI agree that it would be very bad indeed to pass control to a Government Department from the House in any matter whatsoever. Is it not a fact, however, that there are serious advantages as well as disadvantages in this suggestion? Does the Minister remember the difficulties we have from time to time, that the Treasury comes to the rescue on very many occasions, but that there is always a flurry and worry and we never know quite what is to happen?
§ Mr. GreenI quite see the point the hon. Gentleman is making. I think he will agree—I am glad that he has in effect said so— that the Treasury comes to the rescue on appropriate occasions. I do not think that the system is working too badly. We are keeping in this country and away from export a very substantial amount of the nation's art heritage.