§ Baroness Anelay of St Johnsasked Her Majesty's Government:
Further to the Written Answer by Lord McIntosh of Haringey on Treasury silver on 16 May (WA 84), whether they will give details of the (a) date; (b) maker's mark; (c) provenance; and (d) value for each of the 16 items of silverware, and specify whether each is of Royal issue and is engraved with Royal arms; whether the Treasury has plans to sell any of the 16 items of silverware in the foreseeable future; and whether it is the Treasury's policy to issue a public statement as soon as the decision is taken to sell one of its antique assets. [HL4533]
5WA
§ Lord McIntosh of HaringeyI will write to the noble Baroness with details of the silver items. So far as sale is concerned, as I explained on 25 October last (Official Report, col. 1102), "It has been decided not to sell items valued at over £1 million with the greatest historical and heritage significance". In respect of the remaining items I refer her to my Answer of 18 March this year (Official Report, col. WA 123).
The Treasury's antique assets include some items of very modest value and no historical importance—ranging down to a vase valued at £10. The Treasury would not make any public announcement of the proposed sale of such items. I will, however, keep your Lordships informed of decisions in respect of the silver items formerly associated with the Privy Council.
§ Baroness Anelay of St Johnsasked Her Majesty's Government:
Further to the Writ ten Answer by Lord McIntosh of Haringey on Treasury silver on 16 May (WA 64), whether the 16 items of silverware will attract a capital charge of 6 per cent under resource accounting and budgeting if they are retained by the department. [HL4534]
§ Lord McIntosh of HaringeyThey will.