HC Deb 19 February 1971 vol 811 c576W
Mr. Bishop

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she is aware of the concern about the increasing extent to which antiques are being sent for export; and if she will consider what action is necessary to restrict the loss of such goods to the United Kingdom.

Mrs. Thatcher

Existing arrangements ensure that an export licence is not granted for any antique over a specified value regarded by the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art as of national importance if any public collection in this country offers to purchase it at a fair price. My noble friend the Paymaster-General is satisfied with these arrangements.