30 MAY 1970, Page 10

A hundred years ago From the 'Spectator 28 May 1870—Mr.

Ayr- ton had another opportunity yesterday week of trying the nerves of the House . .. The subject of debate was the extension of the National Gallery, which Mr Ayrton wants to delay, and of course he thought it his duty to suggest the most unpleasant possible reasons for delay. He spoke of the space occupied by the works of one artist (Turner) with an unpleasant sneer, and reflected generally on the motives of persons who bequeath pictures to the national collection. "Experience had shown that people had a great fancy for giving pictures to commemorate themselves, but did not offer to contribute pictures which would promote the art of the .eountry.?" Clearly Mr.,Ayrton is not-anxious to encourage gifts to the nation.