§ 50. Mr. Bossomasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is able to make any statement regarding the possibility of a contribution on the part of His Majesty's Government towards the acquisition of the Westminster House site and its preservation as an open space?
§ Sir J. SimonYes, Sir. In deference to representations which have been received from a number of quarters and recognising the advantages which would accrue from the preservation of the West-minister House site as an open space in perpetuity, the Government are ready to contribute up to a total of £100,000 towards the acquisition of the area in question. This sum would be inclusive of any grant made from the Road Fund towards the cost of a scheme for improving traffic facilities in the area and is promised on the condition that the local authorities and such other bodies as may be concerned will increase the contributions which they have already offered, or will secure further contributions, to the extent necessary to enable the total sum required to be subscribed. I must add that, in view of the exigencies of the present financial position, the contribution of £100,000 to which the Government have agreed is a maximum figure which is not in any case to be exceeded.