§ 11. Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he was consulted by the owner of Durrington Walls before the deep ploughing of the prehistoric site.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Reginald Eyre)I was given no notice of the recent work, but I am assured by the owners that it was not deep ploughing but rotavation intended to prepare the land for grazing.
§ Mr. DalyellI have some sympathy with the chagrin of the Ancient Monuments Department in this matter. What is to be done to prevent a recurrence of this position?
§ Mr. EyreI share the hon. Gentleman's concern. This very important prehistoric monument is under a preservation order. I am carefully investigating all the circumstances. Until these inquiries have been completed, the hon. Gentleman will appreciate that I cannot say any more.