HC Deb 23 January 1984 vol 52 cc626-7
23. Mr. Murphy

asked the hon. Member for Wokingham, as representing the Church Commissioners. how many ecclesiastical buildings are currently classified as listed.

Sir William van Straubenzee

The Church Commissioners are not themselves responsible for maintaining separate lists of all listed ecclesiastical buildings. Such buildings are, however, included, though not specifically identified, in the full lists prepared and maintained by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment.

Mr. Murphy

Is my hon. Friend satisfied that in consultations between the Department of the Environment and the Church Commissioners over the possible listing of ecclesiastical buildings, a fair balance is struck between the safeguarding of the architectural heritage and the ability to finance preservation?

Sir William van Straubenzee

I can answer only in respect of buildings for which the Church Commissioners are responsible, and they are not responsible for the vast majority of churches. The Church Commissioners would certainly not wish to receive more favourable treatment than any other owner. We are always notified, as are others, of the broad lists of listed buildings.

Sir John Biggs-Davison

Can my hon. Friend extend his concern to some of the contents of those buildings? I am thinking of the selling of communion plate and other sacred objects given or bequeathed by pious benefactors. This is causing great concern, particularly on the eve of Christian heritage year.

Sir William van Straubenzee

I do not wish to be unhelpful, but I must limit myself strictly to buildings for which the Church Commissioners are responsible. If I do not do so, more questions will appear on the Order Paper. In relation to those buildings alone, there are very stringent regulations. I suspect that my hon. Friend is referring to churches for which the Church Commissioners are not answerable.

Mr. Chapman

With regard to the highest graded buildings of architectural or historical interest in the ownership of the Church Commissioners or the Church of England, is it not a fact that only one, to date, has been demolished? Is not the fact that all the others have been maintained in one form or another a matter for commendation of the Church Commissioners?

Sir William van Straubenzee

I am much obliged to my hon. Friend. That is the position with regard to those buildings for which the Commissioners are responsible, which have been declared redundant or which have passed through their hands. I hope that that shows the careful stewardship of the Church Commissioners.