HC Deb 29 March 1955 vol 539 cc175-6
7. Mr. E. Fletcher

asked the Minister of Works whether his attention has been called to considerable unauthorised interference with the ancient monuments at Great Chesterford, Essex, scheduled by his Department; and what steps he is taking to prevent the threatened damage to these monuments.

Mr. Birch

Yes, Sir. The gravel company concerned has been notified of the Ministry's requirements. Arrangements will be made to have the important remains examined and recorded.

Mr. Fletcher

Yes, but is the Minister aware that unless drastic steps are taken earlier to do something about these gravel pit excavations, there is a grave risk that the important historical evidence on this site of the continuity between the Roman and Saxon period may be destroyed? Will the Minister take energetic steps to see that this historical evidence is preserved and recorded before it is destroyed?

Mr. Birch

I am aware of the importance of this site, and we are taking appropriate action.