HC Deb 30 July 1957 vol 574 c1038
2. Sir T. Moore

asked the Minister of Works how long it is proposed to retain the Citadel at Admiralty Arch; and what plans are in his mind for its demolition.

The Minister of Works (Mr. Hugh Molson)

I should regard the heavy expenditure needed to demolish the Citadel as a waste of the taxpayers' money, particularly as alternative accommodation would have to be provided.

Sir T. Moore

Will not my right hon. Friend agree with me that, despite the efforts of nature, this is one of the ugliest buildings in London and spoils probably the loveliest vista in London? Will not he give another thought to this matter?

Mr. Molson

If I embarked on destroying all the ugly buildings in London I should incur a very heavy responsibility.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

As the Minister is concerned with the taxpayers' money, will he consider closing down the building next door?

Captain Pilkington

Has not this building an aesthetic beauty all its own?

Mr. Molson

I am not sure that it has an aesthetic beauty all its own, but I think that it has an historic and sentimental interest as being the centre of the Navy's activities in the last war.