HC Deb 19 January 1954 vol 522 c818
25. Dr. Stross

asked the Minister of Works whether he is now able to state when the "Burghers of Calais" will be moved from the present pedestal; and where it is proposed to place this work.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works (Mr. J. R. Bevins)

It has not yet been possible to find the money for this work, which I agree would be an improvement. When it is possible, my right hon. Friend hopes to get agreement for the group to be moved to a more central position in the Victoria Tower Gardens.

Dr. Stross

Will the Minister inform his right hon. Friend that there is great public interest in this matter, that thousands of people would like to see this piece of sculpture properly shown, and that the sum of £4,000, which is apparently the stumbling block, is not really a very great sum, taking everything into consideration?

Mr. Bevins

My right hon. Friend is aware of the public interest in this matter, but it is not merely a question of £4,000. There are ancillary services in these gardens which my right hon. Friend has in mind and which will cost another £14,000, and there are other works of rather greater importance on the Houses of Parliament Vote.