HC Deb 02 February 1931 vol 247 cc1435-6
66. Mr. HACKING

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he has any announcement to make to the House regarding the proposal to erect new Government buildings in Whitehall?

The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Lansbury)

I hope to introduce at once a short Bill dealing with certain aspects of the proposal to erect new Government buildings in Whitehall. I am unable, however, to make any announcement in regard to the date of starting building operations, as this date will depend entirely on the financial situation.

Mr. HACKING

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the Howard-Frank Committee has been consulted with regard to these proposals?

Mr. LANSBURY

If the hon. Member will put that question to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, who appointed the committee, he will no doubt get an answer.

Colonel ASHLEY

Has the right hon. Gentleman come to an amicable arrangement with the London County Council as to the building line?

Mr. LANSBURY

I am hoping to come to an amicable arrangement with everybody, being an amicable person myself.