HC Deb 16 February 1960 vol 617 cc1121-2
31. Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Works when Iver Grove, Buckinghamshire, was bought by his Department with a view to opening it to the public; what was the purchase price; how much has been spent on the house and gardens; and what it is now proposed to do with it.

Mr. H. Nicholls

I would refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend's reply on 26th January, 1960, to the hon. Member for West Ham, North (Mr. A. Lewis). The property has now been sold to a private purchaser, subject to contract, and will be open to the public by appointment.

Mr. Dodds

But is it not a fact that it was bought in 1956 for the public for £3,000 and that at a local inquiry the Government were warned that it would be a white elephant but the man from Westminster or Whitehall knew best? [HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."] That is what the Minister said. Does not this indicate that when it is all gone into and everything is taken into account, there will be a big debt for the taxpayer to bear once again?

Mr. Nicholls

The property will be open to the general public and any facility that this sort of property usually gives to the public will continue to be available. As to its value, the Historic Buildings Council has said that, after the proceeds of sale are credited, the net expenditure will have been justified. I am certain that the hon. Member will find that this property was worth while preserving in this way. It will be an asset to the nation and it will be open to the general public.