The Tate Affair
The trouble at the,Tate, and in the columns of the Spectator, Was fast and furious while it lasted. Now that the report of the trustees is out, as a. White Paper, it should be considered at IP end. It- is frankly admitted that there were certain definite Infringements of the terms of bequests and trust funds. The necessary financial adjustments have already, been made, and assurances have been given that such errors will not be com- mitted in future. The trustees realise, they say, that " they need increased assurance that they can place complete reliance on the permanent staff in all matters connected with routine administration and procedure," and add that, " they intend to take steps to bring about the necessary improvements." This should satisfy all reasonable people. At any rate, it satisfies the Spectator. Against the admitted and now rectified errors Must .be placed the whole record of the Tate since the end of ,the war. It is only beside this that such mistakes can be seen In true perspective, and very few will quarrel with the trustees when they claim that tho policy pursued in recent years has served the gallery and the public well. it has indeed shown a catholicity of taste and a breadth, of sympathy, and the attend- ance figures show how lively is the public interest in the collec- u°n. The last note in these columns on the subject (on Feb. 5) spoke of individuals who have a vested interest in opposition as vultures swooping in the frosty air." It is to be hoped that they have been cheated of their prey. The campaign against Sir John Rothenstein was not in all quarters conducted without personal malice.
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