66. Mr. DOYLEasked the hon. Member for the Pollok Division of Glasgow, as representing the First Commissioner of Works what sum has been realised during the last 12 months by the sale of wood, bricks, and other material from the Government temporary buildings which have been demolished; what extent in 31 acreage has been cleared; and whether the material so disposed of has been sold by public auction or by private contract?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Hilton Young)I have been asked to answer, as these transactions are carried out by the Disposal and Liquidation Commission. I assume that the question refers to Government offices within the London area. These buildings, together with fixtures and fittings, but excluding all furnishings, have been sold on sealed tender to demolition contractors on condition that everything, including the foundations, is removed by certain dates specified in the contracts. The contractors also have to clear the sites and reinstate ground except only in so far as top soil is concerned. At present work has only been completed in respect of three buildings, namely, the buildings in Victoria Tower Gardens, His Majesty's Office of Works' Stores in Regent's Park, and the Admiralty (Annexe) Buildings on the Mall, St. James's Park. This represents a total area cleared of approximately six acres. It is not in the public interest to disclose the prices which have been obtained.