UK Tax Exemption Scheme for Private Artworks Faces Criticism Over Public Access Difficulties

A British tax exemption program enabling public viewing of privately held artworks requires immediate reform, according to a Guardian investigation. The scheme covers approximately 115,000 works, including pieces by Titian and Pre-Raphaelite artists, allowing owners to avoid inheritance and capital gains taxes if they provide public access for at least 28 days annually. However, arranging viewings often proves challenging despite this requirement. Inaccuracies plague the official database maintained by HMRC, with one notable example being Dante Gabriel Rossetti's painting 'A Christmas Carol' (1828-1882). This work was listed as on loan to Manchester's Lady Lever Gallery despite having been sold at auction by Sotheby's late last year. The current listings remain accessible through the HMRC website.