§ Mr. SpeakerI have a short statement to make.
During the past few years, several hon. Members have made representations to me and to the Leader of the House that a new painting of Members of the House in session should be commissioned. As the House may recall, the last painting of this kind was made in 1960.
After consulting the Leader of the House, who in turn has consulted the Services Committee, I have approved proposals for a new painting to be commissioned from Miss June Mendoza. Miss Mendoza will be given facilities to sketch from appropriate positions in and under the Galleries while the House is sitting. I understand that this preparatory work will begin very shortly.
The new painting will be financed from the sale of prints. There will be no cost to public funds. I should like to add my personal thanks to Sir Robert Cooke, special adviser to the Secretary of State for the Environment, for the part he has played in this project.