HC Deb 18 May 1927 vol 206 cc1177-8
37. Sir BASIL PETO

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Depart- ment, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether his attention has been drawn to the considered opinion of the London Association of Master Masons on the proposed patching and gradual repair of the Houses of Parliament with Stancliffe stone; and whether, as this opinion is adverse to the present proposal to the Office of Works, he will Consider the appointment of an expert committee to reconsider the whole question, including the advisability and ultimate economy of the proposal to entirely re-face the building with Portland stone?

Captain HACKING

My right hon. Friend is aware of the views of the Master Masons regarding the proposal to repair the stonework at the Houses of Parliament with Stancliffe stone. He does not consider it necessary to appoint an expert committee, but before reaching a final decision, he is seeking the advice of representative architects, builders and masons, both in London and in the provinces.

Sir B. PETO

Can my hon. Friend say when the conference, at which the Government are seeking advice, will take place?

Captain HACKING

It is not in the form of a conference. My right hon. Friend is asking the advice of these architects and builders and masons, and when he has received it he will make his own decision.

Mr. HARRIS

Was not the original stone selected on the advice of an expert committee? Are not experts therefore dangerous people to follow?

Captain HACKING

My right hon. Friend is most anxious not to make a mistake such as was made when these buildings were originally erected, and he is taking every precaution to select the right stone.

Sir B. PETO

Before coming to a decision, will the expert opinion of these various bodies of master masons, builders and architects be made public?

Captain HACKING

I will ask my right hon. Friend whether he is prepared to make their opinion public and let my hon. Friend know.