§ 32. Mr. REMERasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he is aware that the future use of the main fabric of St. John's Lodge, in the Regent's Park, has been under discussion for at least seven years; will he come to a decision during 1934 as to whether the derelict main fabric is to be demolished or 18 utilised; and will he state what was the obstacle to his arriving at a decision in 1933?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)I am aware that the future use to which St. John's Lodge might be put, has been under consideration for some years, and, while several proposals have been discussed, the unsuitability of the building for official purposes, and the capital cost of any conversion being large, have so far proved obstacles in the way of a solution of the problem. It is possible that the building, which is not without some architectural interest, might be utilised for a museum, but failing this, I may have to contemplate its complete removal.
§ Mr. REMERIn view of the long delay that has occurred in this matter will my right hon. Friend take steps to see that it is now dealt with more promptly than in the past?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI am not excluding the possibility of some of our overcrowded museums using this as a dump or reserve. Failing that, I think it will have to come down.