HC Deb 10 May 1962 vol 659 cc608-9
2. Mr. Driberg

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs, if he is aware that the Court of Common Council of the City of London, meeting on 8th March, took a decision to demolish the Coal Exchange after being advised by the chairman of the Coal and Corn and Finance Committee that, because of the Minister's decision, the City Corporation had no power to accept Lord Mottistone's scheme for preserving the Coal Exchange; and, in view of this inaccurate statement, what steps he is taking to raise the matter anew with the Court of Common Council.

Mr. Rippon

The report before the Court of Common Council on 8th March contained the full text of the letter giving my right hon. Friend's views on the schemes submitted to him and I am informed that Mr. Rodway Stephens in his opening speech fully explained the position. There seems no reason for believing that the court were under any misapprehension as to their powers nor any need for further action by my right hon. Friend.

Mr. Driberg

Would the Minister consider that one of the reasons always advanced against preservation has been that it is difficult to find an alternative future use for this building? Is he aware that there is a serious risk of the loss to this nation of the Gernsheim Collection, which may in some ways be a more serious loss than that of the Leonardo cartoon, and that this might be an ideal site for that collection?

Mr. Rippon

I am sure that that suggestion could be borne in mind. As to the merits of this proposal, I can add nothing to what I said to the hon. Gentleman on 6th March.

Mr. Fletcher

Could the Minister do his best to ensure that in any future scheme for the use of this building, whatever may be done about the collection, the very interesting Roman relics in the basement will be suitably preserved?

Mr. Rippon

These are largely matters for the City Corporation. I am sure it will bear in mind what usefully can be done without interfering with the road works scheme.

Mr. Driberg

Is not the Parliamentary Secretary aware—in response to my hon. Friend's question—that assurances have already been given that the Roman relics will be preserved, but that, whereas there are a great many Roman relics of great interest in this country, the Coal Exchange itself is unique, as being the earliest or about the earliest example of cast-iron construction, and is also extremely beautiful?

Mr. Rippon

No one has ever disputed the merits, such as they are, of this building. Unfortunately, it was not possible to get a scheme which the City Corporation and the London County Council could agree should be carried out without affecting road improvements.