HC Deb 01 August 1961 vol 645 cc1126-7
16. Mr. Hayman

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what advice he received from the National Parks Commission about the future of Cholwichtown Stone Row in the Dartmoor National Park.

Sir K. Joseph

The Commission expressed the view that it would appreciate anything which could be done to avoid burying the stone row, subject to other considerations which it recognises that my right hon. Friend might have to take into account.

Mr. Hayman

Can the Parliamentary Secretary say why the Minister overrode the advice of the National Parks Commission, as most people believe that his decision was wrong?

Sir K. Joseph

I cannot accept that my right hon. Friend overrode the Commission's advice. He took account of the considerations which he had to take into account, and came to his decision accordingly.

Sir H. Studholme

Is my hon. Friend aware that while I am very sorry that these ancient stones, which happen to be in my constituency, should be covered up, but happily not destroyed—

Mr. Lipton

Too long.

Sir H. Studholme

—my right hon. Friend has done the right thing, because, so far as I can see, no material new factor has emerged since the inquiry in 1958?