HC Deb 24 October 1950 vol 478 cc2694-5
40. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning if he is aware of the danger and congestion caused by the toll house in Hampstead Lane; and if he will release it from its present classification, with a view to having it demolished.

Mr. Dalton

No one, other than the hon. Member, has suggested pulling down this ancient building, and I have no evidence that it causes danger and congestion.

Mr. Shepherd

Is not it a fact that this building is extremely ugly, that it is not used in any way, and that the real public interest, historical and otherwise, lies in the Spaniard's Inn, which is just opposite?

Mr. Dalton

I do not think that the hon. Gentleman's observations are generally accepted. I have been in touch with the Middlesex County Council and the Finchley Borough Council, who are the authorities in question. They have had no complaints that there is any danger, and there has been no proposal, except that made by the hon. Gentleman, to remove the building. I am not prepared to take any steps in that direction.

Mr. Messer

Is not it a fact that the presence of this building compels motor cars to slow down and that, therefore, this is really a matter of safety?

Mr. Dalton

I dare say that that is true. If we still had only winding country lanes, there would be fewer deaths on the road.

Mr. Erroll

Will the Minister bear in mind that there are other hon. Members who share the views expressed by my hon. Friend the Member for Cheadle (Mr. Shepherd)?