HC Deb 08 May 1950 vol 475 c11
11. Mr. Braine

asked the Minister of Works why his Department propose to make a charge for admission to the grounds of Hadleigh Castle.

Mr. Stokes

An admission fee is charged at all ancient monuments and historic buildings under the care of my Ministry where their importance and the cost of maintenance justify it. The admission fee represents a small contribution by visitors to the cost of maintenance. At Hadleigh Castle local residents will be admitted free.

Mr. Braine

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Hadleigh Castle is just a small pile of stones, and that, for generations, residents in the area have gone there not so much to see the ruins as to obtain a view of the Kent coast? Is he also aware that there is great local resentment that such a charge should be imposed, and will he reconsider it?

Mr. Stokes

I do not think the hon. Gentleman has listened to my answer. I said that local residents are admitted free, that they will continue to be admitted free, and that a charge is only made for excursionists.