HC Deb 25 October 1960 vol 627 c2145
22. Mr. Wyatt

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what reply he has sent to the letter, sent to him in July by the Royal Fine Art Commission, concerning the proposed removal of the Doric Arch, Great Hall and Shareholders' Meeting Room at Euston Station; and if he will make a statement.

Sir K. Joseph

My right hon. Friend has not yet replied to this letter because he is still considering the matter in consultation with the other Ministers concerned.

Mr. Wyatt

The Government have been considering this matter for nearly a year now. What is the point of having a Royal Fine Art Commission if the Government are going to disregard its recommendations which, in this case, are to keep that historic monument at Euston Station? Why waste the time of the distinguished gentlemen advising the Government if they take no notice?

Sir K. Joseph

I think the length of time shows what respect the Government are paying to the Royal Fine Art Commission and its recommendations.

Mr. K. Robinson

Will the Minister consult particularly with his right hon. Friend the Minister of Works who now discovers, contrary to the reply which he gave in this House before the Recess, that he does possess powers to contribute towards the cost of replacing this arch?