§ Mr. Fauldsasked the Minister for the Arts whether, in the light of the representations made by the Spanish Government, he has communicated with Messrs. Christie's with regard to its auction sale for Friday 11 April in respect of Goya's portrait of the Marquesa de Santa Cruz; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LuceYes. Christie's has kept me informed of developments. Agreement has been reached that the painting will be acquired by the Kingdom of Spain. It will therefore not be auctioned.