HC Deb 01 February 1949 vol 460 c1484
6. Commander Maitland

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning what steps he has taken to ensure that the development carried out by the Admiralty in the vicinity of Herstmonceaux Castle preserves the beauty of the castle and park.

Mr. Silkin

My Department has been represented in all discussions relating to the Admiralty use of this castle and park. The local planning authority will see the plans as they are drawn up by the Admiralty architects and my Department will be kept fully informed.

Commander Maitland

Is it not a fact that there has already been considerable development; have the plans of that development been submitted to the right hon. Gentleman's Department; and could the right hon. Gentleman tell me what development charge has been levied in this case?

Mr. Silkin

The hon. and gallant Member is asking a lot of questions which are not on the Order Paper.

Commander Maitland

That is what the Minister is there for—to answer questions.

Mr. Silkin

The plans have not been submitted. Although there has been a good deal of representation about them in the Press, they have not yet been submitted.

Mr. Vane

But the stuff is there.

Mr. Silkin

In any case, it is quite impossible to answer questions about a development charge.

Brigadier Head

Is the Minister aware that already Herstmonceaux Castle from being a very beautiful spot has become a blot on the landscape, whatever may be said about the plans?

Mr. Molson

Have any works been begun there before the plans have been approved?

Mr. Silkin

Works are not the subject of this Question.