HC Deb 08 February 1955 vol 536 cc1710-1
4 Mr. Burden

asked the Minister of Works (1) the anticipated total cost of hiring the scaffolding in use at the Albert Memorial;

(2) when it is expected that the scaffolding surrounding the Albert Memorial in Kensington Gardens will be removed;

(3) how long the scaffolding at the Albert Memorial in Kensington Gardens has been in position.

Mr. Birch

The cost of hiring, erecting and dismantling the scaffolding is estimated to be £1,860. It has been in position since last July, and will be removed towards the end of March.

Mr. Burden

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that, although there are many views as to the value of this Memorial, the scaffolding at least does not improve its value? Would he not agree that, because of this fact, the time during which the scaffolding has been erected is far too long, and will he undertake that steps will be taken to ensure that this sort of thing does not happen again?

Mr. Birch

No; I cannot altogether agree with my hon. Friend. The object is to repair bomb damage, as some of the metal work and some of the stone statues were damaged. It takes a certain time to make the parts and put them on, and, believe it or not, the work has actually taken a shorter time than was anticipated.

Mr. Stokes

Would it not be a good thing, while the scaffolding is up, to pull the hideous thing down?

Mr. Birch

I like the Albert Memorial.