HC Deb 26 October 1932 vol 269 cc971-2
39. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been called to the probable danger of damage to the fabric of Westminster Abbey by reason of the increase in traffic along the east side of the Abbey since the opening of the new Lambeth Bridge; and whether he will consider the desirability of negotiating with the Westminster City Council with a view to the paving of the roadway adjoining Henry VII's chapel with rubber blocks so as to secure a reduction of vibration?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

I saw last week for the first time a general statement of the nature indicated by my hon. Friend. Any evidence which the Abbey authorities brought to my notice would be carefully examined not only by my Department but also, I am sure, by the responsible highway authority, the City of Westminster.

Sir W. DAVISON

But is it not a matter of notoriety that the vibration on the Abbey, as anyone who goes into it realises, has been greatly increased by the enormous increase of traffic since the opening of Lambeth Bridge? My hon. Friend has not answered the suggestion at the end of the question, that rubber blocks, which enormously decrease vibration, should be placed around this national monument.

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

No doubt that will be considered when the matter is brought officially to the notice of the Department.

Mr. CHORLTON

Is the Minister aware that this severe vibration does arise in very heavy traffic, that great concern is being caused to the authorities and that representations have been conveyed by the Dean to the Institute of Mechanical Engineers that it is feared that something much more serious to the structure than the fall of masonry in the Henry VII Chapel will happen?

Sir W. DAVISON

What representations does the Minister wish to have made to him? When attention is drawn to the matter in Parliament, is not that sufficient? In view of the speech made by the Dean last week at a public meeting, is that not sufficient for the Minister to take action in the matter?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

Of course, it is obvious that we shall try to do something if we are communicated with by the Dean, and no doubt he will communicate with us.