§ 5. Mr. KINGasked the Under-Secretary of State for India what instructions have been given to the architects selected to design buildings in the new Delhi in regard to the employment of Indian craftsmen, Indian materials; and Indian traditions?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Harold Baker)No instructions have been given to the architects on the subjects referred to. They have been informed, as stated in the Press, that it is proposed to appoint as their responsible adviser Sir Swinton Jacob, who is specially qualified to advise on the points mentioned by my hon. Friend.
§ 6. Mr. KINGasked whether any architects have been appointed to prepare plans 1964 for the new Delhi, and for what buildings they are instructed to prepare plans; and whether the report of the Delhi Town-Planning Committee will be published, as promised, before plans are finally settled and accepted?
§ Mr. BAKERAs regards both parts of the question, there is nothing to add to the remarks I made on the adjournment on the 30th January.
§ 9. Mr. KINGasked whether the report of the Delhi Town-Planning Committee will be published shortly; and, if not, whether Papers will be laid upon the Table showing why the site of the new official city has been removed from the Durbar site?
§ Mr. BAKERIt is not proposed to publish the Committee's first report, as it was purely provisional, and its recommendations are under reconsideration. The final report, which is expected shortly, will explain the reasons for selecting whatever site may be proposed. In fulfilment of the undertaking given to the House, a copy of the first report has been placed in the Library.
§ Mr. BAKERNo, Sir; I informed my hon. Friend last week I could not give a definite assurance upon that point at present.