HL Deb 12 June 1967 vol 283 cc641-2

2.36 p.m.

LORD HOLFORD

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

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will name an early starting date for the construction of the British Embassy building in Brasilia, having regard to the facts that a design of outstanding technical and architectural interest has been for some time approved, that the Brazilian Foreign Office has recently moved to the new capital, and that the building costs there are rising with every year of delay.]

THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF PUBLIC BUILDING AND WORKS (LORD WINTERBOTTOM)

My Lords, it is still too early to name a starting date for this project which, for overriding financial reasons, was deferred last July. I assure your Lordships that the architectural quality and interest of the design to which the noble Lord refers are not in dispute. Provision is being made for temporary office accommodation to be available for Her Majesty's Ambassador's use, to match the move of the Brasilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to Brasilia which, I am informed, has not in fact yet taken place.

LORD HOLFORD

My Lords, while thanking the noble Lord for his informative answer, may I ask him whether he is aware that the Federal capital in Brazil has become a theatre, as it were, for progressive architecture from all over the world? I have correspondents among the Brazilians who have written to say how much they are awaiting our contribution. It seems clear that our contribution is of a very interesting character, and I should be interested if some indication could be given when the present discussions with the architects, the Smithsons, are concluded and the work can actually proceed.

LORD WINTERBOTTOM

My Lords, I am glad that the noble Lord, with his special knowledge, confirms that the design proposed is a good one. However, the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs have not yet moved to Brasilia. The move is expected in the near future, but they have not yet moved, and in view of the present financial difficulties the decision to go ahead with this Embassy has not yet been taken.

LORD CARRINGTON

My Lords, may I ask the noble Lord whether, when the Brazilian Foreign Ministry move, Her Majesty's Ambassador will be based in Brasilia, and, if so, where he will live?

LORD WINTERBOTTOM

My Lords, I cannot answer that question specifically. All I do know is that temporary office accommodation is being made available for his use when the Brazilian Ministry move.

LORD CHAMPION

My Lords, can the noble Lord tell us the cost of the building in question?

LORD WINTERBOTTOM

My Lords, I am afraid that I cannot give an answer to that question.