HC Deb 05 March 1963 vol 673 cc178-9
4. Mr. Lubbock

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether his approval has been sought for the construction of a new elephant house at the London Zoo; and what is the estimated cost of this project.

Mr. Sharples

My right hon. Friend's approval was sought and given for this scheme. The cost of the project is the responsibility of the Zoological Society of London.

Mr. Lubbock

Does the hon. Gentleman recall that, in the autumn of 1961, restrictions had to be placed on the building of homes by local authorities because of pressure on scarce building resources? Is he satisfied that the approval he gives to projects of this kind will not interfere with the much more important task of house building?

Mr. Sharples

Approval in this case is sought from us in our capacity as landlord, and I do not think that the other considerations should rightly enter into it. As I said, the cost is entirely borne by the Zoological Society.

Mr. P. Williams

Will my hon. Friend give an undertaking that he will not build any permanent establishments for Trojan horses in the body politic?