§ 9. Mr. Liptonasked the Minister of Works to what extent the Clock Tower and the Victoria Tower of the Palace of Westminster are not vertical; and what action he is taking to remedy the structural defects.
§ Lord John HopeThe Clock Tower is about 15 inches out of vertical towards the north-west. The Victoria Tower is out of vertical towards the south-west by about the same amount. Both Towers are being kept under close observation, but there is no indication that the tilt is of recent development in either case, nor is there any cause for concern as to the safety of the Towers.
§ Mr. LiptonWhile we all regret that Parliament is not as firmly based as we thought, will the Minister continue to keep a watchful eye on the situation to try to get things straightened out as soon as he can? Does he not agree that London has sufficient tourist attractions without adding the "Leaning Towers of Westminster" to them?
§ Lord John HopeI am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his helpful suggestion.