§ 18. Mr. Dribergasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will impress on the Government of Jamaica the desirability of preserving the historic buildings and other architectural amenities of the island; if he is aware that the destruction of Rose Hall, near Montego Bay, was aggravated by the removal therefrom, by its owner, of the antique staircase; and if he is satisfied that the Government of Jamaica possess sufficient powers to prevent such action in future.
Mr. Creech JonesI hope all Governments in the colonial territories will preserve historic buildings and other architectural amenities. In the case of Jamaica, the Government are now framing legislation to ensure the preservation of scheduled objects of historic interest.
§ Mr. DribergSince there is relatively little good old architecture in Jamaica, owing to earthquakes and the illiteracy of rich landowners in the past and other natural causes, will my right hon. Friend do all he can to see to it that this legislation is effective in checking such vandalism as that committed by the owner of Rose Hall?
Mr. Creech JonesI most heartily welcome the new ordinance and I hope that other Colonial Governments will follow suit.