HL Deb 08 November 1950 vol 169 cc200-1

2.43 p.m.

THE DUKE OF SUTHERLAND

My Lords, I beg to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether it is their intention to implement the Report and findings of the Gowers Committee on Historic Houses by legislation at a reasonably early date.]

THE MINISTER OF CIVIL AVIATION (LORD PAKENHAM)

My Lords, the Report, which covers a wide field involving several different Government Departments, is under active consideration, but I am afraid I am not yet able to say either how far the Government will accept the Committee's recommendations or how soon any necessary legislation is likely to be introduced.

LORD CLYDESMUIR

IS the noble Lord aware that there is some disappointment that there was no mention of this matter in the gracious Speech; and can he assure us that it will receive early consideration?

LORD PAKENHAM

I will take anything from the noble Lord, including the statement that there was disappointment. The disappointment had not made its way through to me, but I will take it from him that it exists. As regards "early consideration." I do not know whether the noble Lord intends that to be a stronger phrase than "active consideration," but if so I am ready to accept it as such.

THE MARQUESS OF SALISBURY

Could we know who are the "appropriate bodies" concerned in this matter?

LORD PAKENHAM

NO doubt here, as in regard to the last question, there are a great many appropriate bodies concerned. Several different Government Departments are involved, and, of course, they have to give the matter consideration. That is now proceeding.

THE DUKE OF SUTHERLAND

My Lords, we all know that the inception of this Committee was the work of Sir Stafford Cripps, and we hope, therefore, that the indisposition of Sir Stafford Cripps will not mean that the matter will be delayed, but that his successor will be equally interested in the scheme and will realise the importance of these old houses, monuments to British history, as they are, which should be preserved before the owners are forced to pull them down or turn them into lunatic asylums.

LORD PAKENHAM

Speaking without notice I can assure the noble Duke that there is no possible danger arising through the very sad indisposition which he mentions.