HC Deb 08 May 1933 vol 277 c1207
13. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he has now received a report from His Majesty's Ambassador at Brussels with regard to the proposal to erect houses on the field of Waterloo; and what is the purport of the same?

Sir J. SIMON

His Majesty's Ambassador at Brussels has reported that a Private Bill has been laid before the Chamber of Representatives for the purpose of abrogating the law of the 26th of March, 1914, preserving the battlefield of Waterloo from building operations. The matter is under the consideration of the Belgian Government, and His Majesty's Ambassador will keep me informed of developments.

Sir W. DAVISON

Is it not the fact that on Thursday last this Bill was rejected by the Belgian Parliament?

Sir J. SIMON

I have no official knowledge of it, but, in that case, I hope the hon. Member is satisfied.

Sir W. DAVISON

I am asking my right hon. Friend if he has any confirmation of it?

Mr. HANNON

Will not His Majesty's Government indicate to the Belgian Government that this would be a very undesirable thing?

Sir J. SIMON

I think that my answer is satisfactory to the House. The matter is under the consideration of the Belgian Government, who are primarily concerned, but our Ambassador is keeping me informed.

Forward to