HC Deb 28 April 1926 vol 194 cc2025-6
59. Captain CROOKSHANK

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether Bodiam Castle, which was left to the nation by the generosity of the late Marquess of Curzon of Kedleston, is in the care of his Department whether he is aware that the castle is not open to the public on Sundays, though other monuments of the same class are open on Sundays; and whether he will arrange that in the future it may be possible for the public to avail themselves of the opportunity of inspecting Bodiam Castle on Sundays as well as week-days?

Captain HACKING

The castle was left to the National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or National Beauty, and is not in the charge of the Office of Works.

Sir F. WISE

Is there any cost to the taxpayer in keeping up this castle?

Captain HACKING

No, Sir; it is kept up by voluntary contributions.

Captain CROOKSHANK

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman use his great influence with the Trust, with a view to having this monument opened on Sundays, because a very large number of trippers, including hon. Members of this House, go there on Sundays, and cannot get in?

Captain HACKING

I will convey the suggestion to the National Trust.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the grounds, the moat and the outside of the castle are open on Sundays, and that it is quite unnecessary to employ men on the Sabbath to keep the rest of it open?

Captain HACKING

I am quite aware that the outside is open on Sundays.

Sir. H. BRITTAIN

And the moat!