MR. TALBOT (Oxford University)To ask the hon. Member for Chorley, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether his Department has undertaken the custody of the monastic buildings of St. Paul's Church, Jarrow; and, if so, whether this arrangement has been approved by the Bishop of the diocese or the patrons of the benefice; and whether any steps have been taken to ascertain the feelings of the inhabitants of the parish on the matter.
(Answered by Lord Balcarres.) The rector of Jarrow-on-Tyne has expressed a wish to place the ruins of the Monastery of St. Paul's, Jarrow, under the care of 34 the Commissioners of His Majesty's Works under the provisions of the Ancient Monuments Acts. The Commissioners have intimated to the rector their willingness to accept this charge provided all requisite legal formalities are fulfilled. No communication has been received on the subject from the Bishop of the diocese; but Lord Northbourne, as a patron of the benefice, has written to inquire by what authority it is proposed to make this transfer. The town council have expressed their approval of the proposed transfer, which, it should be observed, is one which concerns the maintenance and guardianship only, not the freehold.