HC Deb 22 November 1926 vol 200 c15
37. Sir H. BRITTAIN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Depart merit, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, upon what part of the House of Commons it is proposed to commence repair work; from what part of the country the stone is to come; and what is to be the approximate amount to be spent?

Captain HACKING

In the Memorandum which has recently been published, it is suggested that the work of repair should be commenced on the Terrace Front, and that Stancliffe stone from barley Dale in Derbyshire should be used. The estimated cost of the proposed repairs is £1,620,350. I should add, however, that my right hon. Friend has not yet reached any decision regarding the recommendations contained in the Memorandum.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Will the hon. Gentleman say for how long a period of time these repairs will be allowed?

Captain HACKING

No, it is not possible to give an estimate yet.

Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

Cannot something be done for the more prominent features of this building, which are at present an eyesore, and the expenditure on which would not be large, so that the general appearance of the building would not be disfigured?