HC Deb 18 July 1950 vol 477 c152W
W. T. Williams

Mr. asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps are being taken by any of the national collections under his control to acquire for the nation Constable's "Marine Parade and Old Chain Pier. Brighton." which is now in the hands of dealers.

Sir S. Cripps

Constable is not at present adequately represented in the Tate Gallery, and the Trustees have informed me that for this reason it would be particularly desirable to acquire the important picture to which my hon. Friend refers. The price at which it could be bought is £15,000. This figure is reasonable for a masterpiece of this size and quality, but it is more than the Trustees of the Tate Gallery can find from the resources at their disposal. They have asked me whether, if they will find half the price, I will provide the balance. I have agreed to the purchase of the picture on this basis, and Parliament will in due course he asked to vote a supplementary purchase grant of £7,500.