§ 11. Mr. Tam Dalyell (Linlithgow)Pursuant to his answer of 9 May 2000, Official Report, columns 379–80W, what liaison he has had with the devolved Administrations about nomination of the Forth bridge to UNESCO for world heritage site status; and if he will make a statement about how the UNESCO world heritage committee's priorities for action relate to the Forth bridge. [123680]
§ The Minister for the Arts (Mr. Alan Howarth)Although my Department liaises regularly with the devolved Administrations over United Kingdom world heritage site issues, including the possible order and timing of all future UK nominations, the Scottish Executive will decide when they wish to nominate the Forth bridge. UNESCO's world heritage committee is considering priorities for the number and types of sites it would like to see nominated from all countries in the future, and that will affect UK nominations.
§ Mr. DalyellWhen is the consideration to which my hon. Friend refers likely to reach a conclusion?
§ Mr. HowarthI cannot answer my hon. Friend on that point, as it will be a matter for the Scottish Executive. I can, however, tell him that the Forth bridge is a category A listed building and, as such, should be properly cared for, whether or not it is nominated as a world heritage site. Should it be nominated, there is an expectation—indeed, I would say a requirement—for the site to be properly maintained to the highest standards in accordance with a management plan.