HC Deb 04 March 1952 vol 497 c184
21. Mr. Michael Foot

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government the most recent date on which a proposal for rebuilding the Plymouth Library was turned down by Her Majesty's Government; the cost involved; and the grounds for the Government's decision.

Mr. H. Macmillan

A scheme, estimated to cost £33,000, was turned down on 19th October, 1951, seven days before I took office, because it would have used building resources which are needed for more essential work.

Mr. Foot

Will the right hon. Gentleman consult with the Under-Secretary on this matter, because I think the Under-Secretary was misinformed on the subject, and probably the Minister is misinformed as well? Will he tell us whether he will be prepared to grant these licences now if, in fact, the steel can be secured from the old buildings amongst the blitzed parts?

Mr. Macmillan

The hon. Gentleman is rather pressing at an open door, for I am not, either by inclination or interest, allergic to libraries.