HC Deb 23 June 1953 vol 516 c1676
40. Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Works if he will consider offering the artistic coats of arms displayed on the Coronation stands in Parliament Square to the appropriate municipalities as souvenirs of an historic occasion.

Sir D. Eccles

Yes, Sir. I am offering these coats of arms of the county towns of the United Kingdom at approximately cost price to the appropriate cities and boroughs.

Mr. Dodds

I am sure the right hon. Gentleman is aware that that announcement will be received with a good deal of pleasure. There has been much interest in these coats of arms. Will he say how he is bringing this offer to their attention? Will he give in the OFFICIAL REPORT the names of the municipalities concerned, or will he write to them?

Sir D. Eccles

I think that this Question and answer will draw attention to it. The towns and cities are the county towns of the United Kingdom, but I may think proper to write to each one and make a separate offer.

Mr. Dodds

In view of the fact that Christie is taking up all the newspaper space these days, will the Minister do that?

Mr. F. M. Bennett

Is the Minister offering the coats of arms of the Commonwealth Governments and the Colonial Territories in the same way?

Sir D. Eccles

The Commonwealth Governments have accepted the free gift of their Emblems from Her Majesty's Government.