HC Deb 26 February 1936 vol 309 cc449-50
46. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government will avail itself of the opportunity which has arisen for removing the block of buildings standing in Parliament Square known as Westminster House, immediately behind the statue of Canning; and, seeing that this is a national and not merely a civic improvement, will he get into touch with the Middlesex County Council and the London County Council on the matter, as these two public bodies are prepared to assist in providing the necessary expenditure which will enable the site to be cleared thereby adding to the amenities both of the Houses of Parliament and of Westminster Abbey?

The PRIME MINISTER

This question has been carefully considered by the Government, who have reached the conclusion that the proposed improvement is not one which would justify a departure from the ordinary practice that the cost of improvements to cities should be paid for by local authorities. Consequently, they could not approve the application of the taxpayer's money to this purpose.

Sir W. DAVISON

Would my right hon. Friend not consider that Parliament Square, which is bounded on two sides by the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey and on the third side by Government offices, is a matter which is a very special trust to the Imperial Government, and especially to the National Government, and is he aware that a grant of a little over £100,000 from the Treasury would secure this national improvement for ever to the public, and that the land would be handed over to the Office of Works for permanent occupation?

The PRIME MINISTER

If that sum would really be the limit, I cannot think it is beyond the power of London itself to provide it.

Sir W. DAVISON

Will my right hon. Friend confer with the London County Council and the Middlesex County Council on this matter?

The PRIME MINISTER

I cannot give any undertaking for the moment.

Mr. MESSER

Is it not a fact that it was the financial barons who prevented the Middlesex County Council taking over this land some time ago?