It is estimated the Ministry of Culture, Media and Sport, UK, over the past four years (2005-2009) from the government art collections lost 19 of decorating the walls of public offices not only in the British Isles, but throughout the world (for example, Jakarta and Sao Paulo). Fortunately, four of them were subsequently found in the same buildings, but in other areas. Another 12 works of art were damaged, and their restoration would cost many thousands of pounds.

These facts have caused a wave of criticism from political opponents. They said that the ministers, ambassadors and officials too casually refer to these treasures, and asked to tighten discipline among employees who are responsible for such valuable items. «Those who hold public office have access to government collections. But they should not forget that these works are still owned by the public and they need to follow », - said Jeremy Hunt (Jeremy Hunt) representative of the shadow cabinet, responsible for culture. - The data that we have received indicate that employees too easily relate to the plight of the masterpieces that are in their care ».

Total government collections, there are about 13.5 thousand items, among which there are original paintings XVI century, and rare pieces of printed graphics.

Eight years ago, during the relocation of the British Ambassador in Argentina to a temporary residence in Buenos Aires lost five paintings at a cost of nearly 250 thousand pounds. Jack Straw (Jack Straw), who then held the post of Minister of Foreign Affairs, said that his department is closely monitoring the security of official buildings ... As a result of this incident, the embassy security system has been revised.

More than half of the recent loss and damage also occurred through the fault of the British Ministry of Foreign Affairs, because it is in his office picture or pictures are lost or spoiled more often. And even more: six of them occurred in the main building of the Ministry at Whitehall in London.

About a year ago, in February 2008, of Somerset House in London had been stolen two paintings valued at 80 thousand pounds: «Out in the sea» John Thomas Serres (John Thomas Serres) and «Portrait of Sir William Chambers »brush Côté Francis (Francis Cotes). After a lengthy search involving police officers from different countries, these paintings have been found.

material produced Catherine Onuchin

Sources: independent.co . uk , artinvestment.ru