§ Mr. Ian Stewartasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what published prices for relevant comparanda were taken into account following the search of sale room catalogues mentioned in reply to the hon. Member for Hitchin's Questions about the Water Newton treasure trove.
§ Mr. Joel BarnettThe prices of the ony two relevant comparanda sold in recent years were taken into account in the valuation. However, in view of the paucity of sale-room evidence, these prices formed a relatively minor part of the process of valuing the 28 pieces of Water Newton treasure. If the hon. Member wishes to have fuller information on the valuation the British Museum will be glad to provide it.