The Secretary of State for Defence (Michael Fallon)
Ownership of the most significant works within the Ministry of Defence art collection (MODAC) is to be transferred to other public institutions in order to ensure their continued protection and public display.
The MODAC currently comprises more than 2,000 individual items. It includes some fine art and a notable collection of chronometers but also includes numerous lower value items. Key items of public interest are located in public galleries and museums, with the remainder in MOD premises and other Government or public buildings.
Ownership of works with intrinsic artistic or heritage value is to be transferred to other public bodies, including the National Maritime Museum, the National Museum of the Royal Navy, the Army Museum, the Imperial War Museum and the Government Art Collection. Residual items will remain within MOD custody.
MODAC items are accounted for as publicly owned non-operational heritage assets and the collection has therefore not been valued formally, in line with Government policy. Transfer on an unvalued basis has been approved by the Chief Secretary to the Treasury.
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