§ Mr. Fauldsasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science in view of the importance of the portrait of Jane Duchess of Gordon with her son, the Marquess of Huntly, by George Romney, sold at Messrs. Sotheby on Wednesday 13th December, whether she will ensure that this painting is acquired for the nation.
§ Mr. Gordon CampbellI have been asked to reply.
I am glad to be able to tell the hon. Member that this picture has been acquired for the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. A total of £60,000, of which £50,000 is a special purchase grant, 420W has been made available as an advance from the Contingencies Fund in the first instance. Parliamentary approval will be sought in due course.