§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREasked whether it is proposed to make any structural alteration in the old General Post Office buildings in Aldersgate Street; and, if so, to what extent these buildings of national and artistic interest will be altered; whether any action has been taken in the matter already; and whether the House will be consulted before any work of destruction takes place?
§ Mr. WEDGWOOD BENNThe First Commissioner has considered this question very carefully. Unfortunately the present plan of the buildings in Aldersgate Street, known as the General Post Office East, is very prodigal of space, while the increased business of the Post Office and the enhanced value of land make economy of the utmost importance. It was found, to his very great regret, that it would be quite impossible to provide the necessary space by adapting the buildings in Aldersgate Street, and a scheme has been prepared for demolishing them and erecting a new block. A contract for clearing the site is now under consideration.