§ 29. Sir J. Langford-Holtasked the Minister of Public Building and Works when it was decided that the site opposite Westminster Abbey, at present used as a car park, should not be used as a new Colonial Office; how long it was put to no use at all; and when he expects to reach a decision on its new use in accordance with the Martin Plan of 1965.
§ Mr. LoughlinThe decision not to use the site for a new Colonial Office was taken in 1958. The site had then already been in use for two years as a car park. A feasibility study is being undertaken into a comprehensive development, which 1108 will include a Government conference centre.
§ Sir J. Langford-HoltAs the hon. Gentleman will be aware, this site has been vacant for a quarter of a century and, in asking him to take action, one is not rushing him unduly. Will he tell the House when a final decision will be made about the site, and when something will happen?
§ Mr. LoughlinI have great affection for the hon. Gentleman—[HON. MEMBERS: "Withdraw."]—I will withdraw only at the request of the hon. Member for Shrewsbury (Sir J. Langford-Holt). If he is charging me with delay, he must equally charge his colleagues with delay.
§ Sir J. Langford-HoltYes.
§ Mr. LoughlinAll I can tell him in reply to the second part of his supplementary question is that we hope to be able to give definite information in the early spring.