HC Deb 10 February 1969 vol 777 cc880-1
35. Mr. Albu

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when building of the new Government House in the Solomon Islands was first approved; and what it will cost.

Mr. Mulley

In July 1966. The estimated total cost, as given by my right hon. Friend the then Minister of State for Commonwealth Affairs, to my hon. Friend the Member for Oldbury and Halesowen (Mr. Moyle) on 17th January 1968, was $A300,000.—[Vol. 756, c. 617.] A more recent estimate from information available here is $A328,000. This includes offices and furnishings and approximately $A63,000 for staff housing.

Mr. Albu

Is not this a rather scandalous waste of money considering the desperately poverty-stricken state of the territory and the fact that a traditional, if rather old, Government House already exists there?

Mr. Mulley

I cannot accept that it is a waste of money because the replacement of the present Government House, which was a temporary wartime construction, has been delayed for many years on financial grounds and to give priority to other developments. I believe that it is essential now that we should construct a new building for the High Commissioner and his staff.

Mr. Fisher

Would the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that this Government House was practically falling to bits when I was there six years ago and that its replacement is long overdue.

Mr. Mulley

I am glad to have the hon. Gentleman's assurance on this point.

Mr. Maclennan

Is the assistance of the Duncan Review Committee leading to any review of building operations at present being undertaken?

Mr. Mulley

The Duncan Review Committee is taking into account accommodation as well as services provided. However, we will not get its report for another three months.