HC Deb 21 May 1957 vol 570 cc1016-7
24. Mr. E. Fletcher

asked the Minister of Works if he will now arrange for the transfer of old Temple Bar to an appropriate site in London.

Mr. Molson

No, Sir. Temple Bar does not belong to my Department. It is, however, scheduled as an ancient monument and I should not raise objection to any well considered and generally acceptable scheme to move it to a site in London.

Mr. Fletcher

Was it not always intended that this monument, which has great historic and sentimental associations, should one day be brought back to London? Is it not the case that under one of the right hon. Gentleman's predecessors, negotiations with the City Corporation had reached an advanced stage? Will the Minister now pursue them?

Mr. Molson

The Royal Fine' Art Commission was asked for its views in 1952 and it expressed the view then that it would be better for this monument to remain where it is in Theobalds Park; but I am, as I have said, perfectly willing to consider any proposals which are made for bringing it back to London.