HC Deb 29 March 1960 vol 620 cc1113-4
9. Mr. Lipton

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs when planning consent was given to the erection of an aluminium eagle with a wing-span of thirty-five feet on the American Embasy Building in Grosvenor Square, London.

Sir K. Joseph

The design approved by the London County Council included a large cartouche on the facade. It is now proposed to substitute an aluminium eagle. The planning authority is being consulted.

Mr. Lipton

Will the hon. Gentleman say what on earth London will look like if all the foreign Governments represented here stick up monstrous national emblems on the buildings they occupy? Is not London already defaced and scarred by all kinds of architectural eyesores and so-called planning improvements, and has not the time come to call a halt?

Sir K. Joseph

This question, along with others, will no doubt be studied by the London County Council in deciding whether planning permission is or is not required for this.

Mr. M. Stewart

Will the Minister consider the erection of an English lion and a Welsh dragon on top of the Ministry?