HC Deb 09 November 1964 vol 701 c652
15 and 16. Mr. Allason

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works (1) when he intends to start work on the rebuilding of Knightsbridge Barracks;

(2)what alternative accommodation for the Household Cavalry, their families and horses will be provided during the rebuilding of Knightsbridge Barracks.

Miss Lee

Work is due to start on the rebuilding of Knightsbridge Barracks by the summer of 1966. During the demolition and reconstruction period, the Household Cavalry will be housed in Wellington Barracks where temporary stables are to be built for them.

Mr. Paget

Will my hon. Friend reconsider the question of whether we really want barracks in Knightsbridge in modern conditions?

Miss Lee

I should be very willing to look at the whole problem, and, if my hon. and learned Friend has any suggestions to make, we shall be very glad to consider them.

Mr. Allason

Will the hon. Lady give an undertaking that there will be no further slip-back with this project, because Knightsbridge Barracks are extremely old-fashioned and desperately need modernising?

Miss Lee

I agree that Knightsbridge Barracks are very unsuitable now, particularly for the men and their families. The delays so far have been occasioned because of excessively high tenders. There will be no undue delay in that respect.