HC Deb 01 May 1950 vol 474 c1385
14. Mr. Keeling

asked the Minister of Works what rent he is paying for the office building called St. Anselm's House, for the construction of which he gave a licence; by whom it is to be occupied; and what residential accommodation will be released as a result

The Minister of Works (Mr. Stokes)

St. Anselm's House is being occupied by the British Council. This will enable me to make available for housing purposes Nos. 38, 39 and 41-43, Grosvenor Square and Nos. 39 and 41, Adams Row. It is contrary to the practice of my Department to disclose rent which is being paid for premises.

Mr. Keeling

Before this British Council building was sanctioned, was the Minister's Department satisfied that the amount of residential accommodation which would be released was at least equal to what might have been built by the labour and materials used for the office?

Mr. Stokes

I can assure the hon. Gentleman that we never build if we can help it. It is only when we are sure that that is the case that we go ahead.

Mr. Driberg

Could my right hon. Friend say whether this building is one of those which are being put up under what is known as the Lessor Scheme, and, if so, is he aware of the widespread concern among architects and others about the quality and design of some of these buildings?

Mr. Stokes

Yes, Sir.