HC Deb 21 December 1932 vol 273 cc1074-5
48. Lieut.-Colonel MOORE

asked the Minister of Agriculture what steps he is taking to safeguard the character of the Regency period houses in Regent's Park in view of the permitted alteration of the scheme of architecture in Carlton House Terrace?

Major ELLIOT

I assume that my lion. and gallant Friend refers to the houses in the terraces surrounding Regent's Park. The Commissioners of Crown Lands have no reason to think that these houses will have to be reconstructed for many years to come, and my hon. and gallant Friend will realise that it would not be possible for me to bind the commissioners who may then be in office by any pledge regarding the style of architecture to be adopted.

Lieut.-Colonel MOORE

Does my right hon. Friend realise that the fear that we have is that the excuses which have been advanced to justify the dismemberment of Carlton House Gardens may be used also in regard to breaking up houses in Regent's Park—that is, inability to let? Does he also realise that in times of financial depression big houses are constantly to let because people cannot afford to keep them up?

Major ELLIOT

I cannot undertake to bind my successors, but I shall certainly keep in mind what my hon. and gallant Friend says if any decision of the kind has to be come to by myself.