HC Deb 01 December 1930 vol 245 cc1794-6
66. Captain EDEN

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether it is the intention of the Government to proceed with the reconstruction at Whitehall; and what will be the cost of the work?

The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Lansbury)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. In regard to the second part, the cost of the work is estimated at £2,215,000.

Captain EDEN

Does this work require a Supplementary Estimate?

Mr. LANSBURY

No, it will come into the ordinary Estimates when the time arrives for bringing it forward.

Captain EDEN

Will the plans for this work be made the subject of open competition among architects

Mr. LANSBURY

I think that the hon. and gallant Member had better give me notice of that question.

Mr. A. M. SAMUEL

Will the right hon. Gentleman, before proceeding with this work, have an investigation made as to the amount of space which is available in the Ministry of Health building at Acton, where he will find accommodation for a large number?

70. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether any plans have been prepared of the lay-out of the site for the new Government offices in Whitehall; if so, whether he will have copies placed in the Tea Room of the House; and whether he will give an assurance that no final decision as to the erection of ally new buildings, on the Embankment Gardena will be taken without an opportunity being given to the House of Commons of expressing an opinion on the matter?

Mr. LANSBURY

In regard to the first and second parts of the question, a plan is in course of preparation showing the proposed lay-out of the site for the new Government offices in Whitehall, and arrangements will be made to have a copy placed in the Tea Room of the House in due course. The answer to the last part, of the question is in the affirmative.

Sir W. DAVISON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a widespread feeling that the sweep of the Embankment and the gardens should not be interfered with in any way by buildings being brought forward?

Mr. LANSBURY

The hon. Baronet is probably aware that the building line must be a subject of legislation and that is the object of the Bill which it is proposed to introduce shortly.