§ 42. Mr. K. Robinsonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will take the necessary steps to preserve No. 1, Devonshire Terrace, W.1, a house of architectural merit and of outstanding historic interest.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Mr. J. R. Bevins)This house is included in the list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest compiled under section 30 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1947. Two months' notice of any proposal to demolish it or seriously to affect its character must therefore be given to the local planning authority, who are required to notify my right hon. Friend. If any such notice is received the association of the house with Charles Dickens will certainly be borne in mind.
§ Mr. RobinsonIs the hon. Member aware that this house, in which "David Copperfield" was written—one of the greatest novels in the world—is to be demolished in six months' time unless he or the planning authority does something to stop it? Will he give an assurance that he will not give permission for demolition of this house?
§ Mr. BevinsI understand that the London County Council, which is the planning authority, has not yet received notice of any intention to demolish it, nor has it granted planning permission, and, therefore, it would be quite improper for my right hon. Friend to express an opinion one way or the other. The consideration in the Question will certainly be borne in mind.