HC Deb 23 July 1957 vol 574 c196
9. Mrs. L. Jeger

asked the Minister of Works the total estimated cost at current prices of the proposed new National Library building in Bloomsbury, including compensation payments; and when and where he proposes to start building.

Mr. Molson

On the question of cost, I cannot add to the reply which my predecessor gave the hon. Member on 20th April, 1956. Nor are the plans sufficiently advanced to enable me to forecast when building work will start.

Mrs. Jeger

Is the Minister saying that the general rise in prices since April, 1956, is not to be reflected in this estimate? Is he aware that uncertainty about this scheme is having a very bad effect on the property in the neighbourhood and that people are unwilling to do anything to buildings because of uncertainty about his plans?

Mr. Molson

There is very little uncertainty about it. All that is uncertain is when we shall begin building. It is the fixed intention of the Government to acquire the whole of this area which will be required for the extension of the British Museum.