HC Deb 21 March 1957 vol 567 cc545-6
36. Mr. E. Fletcher

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what boring test has been made with his sanction by the Imperial College of Science and Technology to test the stability of the unsupported campanile at the Imperial Institute; and what was the result of such test.

Mr. Powell

I am informed that borehole tests by a firm of specialist contractors were started last October and completed early this year. A final report will be made very shortly to the architect retained by the College for the expansion scheme.

Mr. Fletcher

In view of the conflict surrounding the proposal for the demolition of the Imperial Institute, will the Minister say whether he has taken any—and, if so what—expert architectural and engineering advice about whether the tower would survive unsupported?

Mr. Powell

These tests are designed to enable a decision to be taken on that point., I understand that the tests are being made by one of the most expert firms for the purpose.