§ 41. Captain J. A. L. Duncanasked the Minister of Works the original estimate of the cost of the new British Embassy in Rio de Janeiro; its final total cost; how much was paid in architects' fees; whether British or Brazilian architects were employed; and when the original expenditure was sanctioned.
§ Mr. EcclesThe original estimated cost of the new British Embassy at Rio de Janeiro was £150,000; its final total cost was £414,000 including architect's fees and expenses. Twenty-five thousand pounds was paid in architect's fees; a British architect practising in Rio de Janeiro was employed. The original expenditure was sanctioned in the Vote for 1945–46.
§ Captain DuncanWhile exonerating my right hon. Friend from any responsibility, does he realise that, thanks to the erection of this very expensive building, there will be additional maintenance cost, and will he see that in his administration no such administrative extravagance is allowed?
§ Mr. EcclesMy hon. and gallant Friend will appreciate that once a building is put up we must maintain it.