§ Lord Lukeasked Her Majesty's Government:
Further to the Written Answer by Lord McIntosh of Haringey on 29 April (WA 65), what are the full descriptions and individual valuations for the 16 items of silverware held by the Treasury and valued at £1.2 million. [HL4205]
§ Lord McIntosh of HaringeyThe items are twelve candlesticks valued at a total of £600,000; a set of three inkstands valued at £450,000; a further inkstand valued at £600; a pair of candle-snuffers valued at £4,000; and a further pair of candle-snuffers and four trays valued at £125,000.
§ Lord Lukeasked Her Majesty's Government:
Further to the Written Answer by Lord McIntosh of Haringey on 29 April (WA 66), why, in light of the fact that the sale will be "confined to institutions willing to display the items to the United Kingdom 65WA public" (12 February, WA 139), and that "No more detailed criteria as to suitability have yet been applied to the list" (WA 66), the Treasury has sought the help of Bonhams auction house in compiling the list, rather than the Department for Culture, Media and Sport or a museums consultant. [HL4206]
§ Lord McIntosh of HaringeyThe Treasury will continue to discuss with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport decisions relating to the future of these items, as well as seeking Bonhams' professional advice.
§ Lord Lukeasked Her Majesty's Government:
Further to the Written Answer by Lord McIntosh of Haringey on 29 April (WA 66), whether the Treasury is proposing a private auction of the Privy Council silver, with Bonhams as its adviser. [HL4207]
§ Lord McIntosh of HaringeyI refer the noble Lord to my Answer of 18 March (Official Report, col. WA 123–24).