§ 33. Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what study he has made of the possibility of erecting buildings on stilts above valuable achæological sites; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EyreI agree that the erection of buildings on stilts is one possible way of preserving valuable archæological remains underneath. Each case needs to be considered individually.
§ Mr. DalyellIs there not a case for using the Field Monuments Bill, which is now going through the House, as a vehicle for a new Clause on this topic?
§ Mr. EyreDetailed consideration will be given to that Bill in due course, but I emphasise that the erection of buildings on stilts is not the only way of preserving archæological remains. They can be raised to a higher level and incorporated in any new building. As an example I would draw attention to the Ministry of Defence building in Whitehall in which there is a Tudor wine cellar which has been preserved and can be visited.
§ Mr. Sydney ChapmanSince we have so few old buildings left in this country, and even fewer archæological remains, would my hon. Friend give serious consideration to strengthening legislation to protect such works? Furthermore, even at this late juncture, will he look at the possibility of Amendments to the Town and Country Planning (Amendment) Bill?
§ Mr. EyreMy hon. Friend's suggestion can be considered, but I assure him that his concern is shared and that every care will be taken for the proper examination of archæological remains which could be of importance.