HC Deb 04 July 1979 vol 969 cc587-8W
Mr. Faulds

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he will initiate discussions with the National Art Collections Fund, the Standing Commission on Museums and Galleries and Heritage in Danger in respect of the increased incentives to export works of art as a result of the Budget.

Mr. St. John-Stevas

I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave him on 25 June. I see no further need for discussions with these bodies.

Mr. Faulds

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he has sanctioned the extension of the system of Government indemnities against loss or damage in order to cover loans of works of art from private sources to exhibitions at the Royal Academy which in his opinion qualify for that purpose; and whether, in view of the fact that, according to his written reply to the hon. Member for Warley, East on 13 June, Official Report, c. 223, no claims have been made in respect of loans of works of art from national museums to security-approved local authority and university museums in England since the indemnification system for such loans was inaugurated two years ago, he now proposes to extend the indemnification system to include loans from private sources to museums thus qualified, comprising both long-term loans and those to temporary exhibitions.

Mr. St. John-Stevas

I shall be reviewing the present indemnity provisions and will make an announcement if any changes can be made.