§ 25. Sir F. Medlicottasked the Minister of Works why a Government Department continues to occupy one of the largest hotel buildings in London, namely, the Victoria Hotel; and if he will make arrangements for the staff now using this building to be transferred to more suitable premises on the outskirts of London and for this building to be restored to its proper function as a hotel.
§ Mr. Buchan-HepburnThe Victoria Hotel, now known as Northumberland House, forms an essential part of the War Office's headquarters in the Whitehall area. It has been Government property since 1950, when the owners sold the freehold to the Government. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War is of opinion that it would not be practicable to have the staffs located on the outskirts of London.
§ Sir F. MedlicottBearing in mind the great shortage of hotel accommodation in central London, would my right hon. Friend give an assurance that, broadly speaking, at least every effort will be made to prevent that kind of accommodation from being used for Government Departments?
§ Mr. Buchan-HepburnBroadly speaking.