§ Mr. JoplingTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage if she will list the 20 most valuable pictures in the Government's art collection which are made available to be displayed in public buildings and embassies overseas, together with the names of the artist, most recent valuation and current location. [24875]
§ Mr. SproatIt is not possible to state which 20 of the Government's art collection of some 14,000 works of art are the most valuable in monetary terms. The monetary value of a picture can be assessed only at the time of purchase or sale and thereafter by professional valuation. It would not be a justifiable expenditure of public funds to have the whole collection valued professionally. As a general rule, the most highly esteemed pictures are placed where they will best serve the national interest, that is to say, in prestige locations at home and abroad.