HC Deb 10 July 1950 vol 477 c929
15. Mr. Braine

asked the Minister of Works for what specific purposes he proposes to spend £5,000 on the ruins of Hadleigh Castle; and whether that sum includes the cost of a custodian.

Mr. Stokes

The money will be spent on fencing the site; on tracing and excavating buried foundations; and on consolidating masonry. The cost of a custodian is not included.

Mr. Braine

Is the Minister aware that these ruins are only a pile of stones and have been in that condition for many centuries? Does he think that the expenditure of £5,000 is justified at this time?

Mr. Stokes

I am, of course, relying on what has been recommended by the responsible authorities who decide what is worthy of preservation. The facts are as I have stated.

Mr. Braine

Would the right hon. Gentleman come to my constituency during the Recess and have a look at it? I should be very happy to entertain him.

Mr. Stokes

There is a great number of ancient monuments and I am busy inspecting them.

16. Mr. Braine

asked the Minister of Works how it is proposed to differentiate between local residents who will not be charged for admission to the site of Hadleigh Castle and others who will be so charged.

Mr. Stokes

Local residents will be issued with free passes on demand.

Mr. Braine

Is the Minister aware that the only people who visit the site are local residents? What use is it, therefore, to appoint a custodian to collect sixpences from people who will not go there anyway?

Mr. Stokes

I cannot accept that. If the facts are as stated, obviously there will be no revenue. We shall have to see.