§ 65. Mr. MANDERasked the First Commissioner of Works the present position with regard to the remains of the Nunnery of White Ladies in Shropshire; and whether it is proposed to bring it under the guardianship of the Office of Works, and to take steps for its preservation and restoration so far as may be practicable?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)These ruins are about to be scheduled under the Ancient Monuments Acts, but, at the present time, the restricted funds at my disposal preclude my Department from taking guardianship.
§ Mr. MANDERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that all that has been done so far is to cut the ivy? In view of the romantic association of this place with the wanderings of Charles II, after the Battle of Worcester, will the right hon. Gentleman give it a high place on his list?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI am fully aware of its interest and importance, but, in view of the requirements of the Estimates Committee of this House, until I have got through some of my existing commitments I cannot do any more.