§ 6. Mr. E. Fletcherasked the Minister of Works if he has now completed his inquiries regarding the recent destruction of a stretch of the Roman Wall of London between Cripplegate and Falcon Square; what steps he is taking to prevent further demolition; and if, in conjunction with the City Corporation, he will proceed immediately with the plan for the creation of a sunken garden to preserve and expose the external face of the wall down to the level of the ancient city ditch.
§ Mr. MolsonYes, Sir. I am satisfied that the recent demolition of a fragment of London Wall near Falcon Square was inadvertent. With the object of avoiding another such incident, the City Corporation has repaired and strengthened the fencing round the remains of the wall in this vicinity and will provide any further protection which may appear necessary. It is also reaffirming its instructions that those concerned with operations near the wall should be most careful to keep clear of it. As the hon. Member knows, it is the intention of the City Corporation to preserve and display this stretch of wall, with a public open space adjoining it. I understand that the City Corporation proposes to carry out this work when it can best be fitted into the general redevelopment of this area.
§ Mr. FletcherI thank the Minister for that reply, but will he suggest to the City Corporation that it would be desirable to complete this work, which it can quite conveniently do, in advance of its general scheme of development in the area?
§ Mr. MolsonI am approaching the City Corporation with the suggestion that it might be desirable for further exploration to take place before large-scale building work begins in the neighbourhood.