HL Deb 16 October 1972 vol 335 cc1533-4
LORD STRABOLGI

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 reconsider their decision to close Lancaster House to the public.

THE PARLIAMENTARY UNDERSECRETARY OF STATE, DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT (LORD SANDFORD)

My Lords, no decision to close Lancaster House has been made. Staff shortages made it difficult to open Lancaster House to the public this summer but arrangements are being made to ensure that it will reopen in the normal way next season.

LORD STRABOLGI

My Lords, while welcoming that reply, may I ask the Government whether they will make arrangements for students to see the paintings there during the winter, on a special application?

LORD SANDFORD

Yes, my Lords; that certainly can be done. In fact, we have had one such request. I will give the noble Lord the address to which application should be made.

VISCOUNT ST. DAVIDS

My Lords, can the noble Lord tell us how, in a time of comparatively high unemployment, there continue to be staff shortages?

LORD SANDFORD

My Lords, the assignment is a particularly difficult one to meet. It is for weekends only, during the summer only; and for that particular job it is quite difficult to recruit.

LORD ROBBINS

My Lords, would the noble Lord be in a position to let the leading centres where art history is studied know of the possibility of special arrangements?

LORD SANDFORD

Yes, my Lords. I will have the address put in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the address referred to: The Director, Home Estate Management, Property Services Agency, St. Christopher House, Southwark Street, London, S.E.I.

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