HC Deb 28 May 1957 vol 571 c187
1. Mr. Nairn

asked the Minister of Works whether he will take powers to clear away all the dilapidated buildings between Great College Street and the King George V Memorial, with the exception of the recently reconstructed Jewel Tower, and make the area into a public park; and his estimate of the cost of this undertaking.

The Minister of Works (Mr. Hugh Molson)

As all the houses between Great College Street and the King George V Memorial are owned by my Department or by the Crown Estate Commission, there is no need to seek statutory powers. I am anxious to effect an improvement on this important site and I shall make a statement to the House when I am in a position to do so.

Mr. Nairn

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that if that could be carried out it would complete the setting for Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, and probably make it one of the most beautiful sites in the whole of the world?

Mr. Molson

I am extremely glad to hear my hon. Friend express that view. It is a great opportunity, which I hope we shall be able to take.

Mr. Anthony Greenwood

Can the Minister say what bodies he proposes to consult before reaching a conclusion?

Mr. Molson

I would rather not. Consultations are taking place at the moment.