The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) has revealed that public art collections in the UK are to be boosted by works worth more than £20m as a result of the government’s Acceptance in Lieu (AIL) scheme.

The scheme enables owners of artworks to offer items to the nation instead of paying inheritance tax.

During 2003/4, some 24 privately-owned items were accepted under the scheme; some were already on loan to public exhibitions while others were under threat of removal or sale abroad. Many, however, will now be on public display for the first time and are to be distributed to collections throughout the UK.

The total value of the objects saved for the nation is £21.7m, with just under £15m worth of tax satisfied.

Speaking at the launch of the scheme’s annual report this month, arts minister Estelle Morris said: “The government’s Acceptance In Lieu scheme continues to be a huge success, saving important works of art and other culturally important items for the nation.

“The things we are saving today range from an exquisite study by John Constable, through to a glorious stretch of historic landscape in Wentworth. Large or small, each will now be available for everyone to enjoy for all time.”

Museums, libraries and archives in Burnley, Cambridge, Cheltenham, Liverpool, Manchester, Oxford, Paisley and the Isle Of Wight are to benefit from new additions thanks to the AIL scheme, while works will also be sent to the National Trust for properties in Herefordshire, Powis and Surrey; to English Heritage for Kenwood House and also to the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Tate and the Victoria & Albert Museum. Details: http://www.mla.gov.uk/action/ail/00ail.asp or www.mla.gov.uk