§ LORD STRABOLGIMy 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 are able to make an announcement about the preservation and restoration of Sandford Manor, in the Borough of Hammersmith.
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY UNDERSECRETARY OF STATE, DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT (LORD SANDFORD)My Lords, listed building consent has been granted for the demolition of the later additions to the building and I understand that the Hammersmith London Borough Council are negotiating with the new owners of the building about the future of the historically important part.
§ LORD STRABOLGIMy Lords, may I thank the noble Lord for that reply and ask him whether he is aware that his Answer that this fine old Manor House, the reputed home of Nell Gwynne, is to be saved will give great satisfaction? As is has been allowed to fall into such a very bad state, would he, or his Department, use their ever good offices to ensure that repairs are carried through as quickly as possible, as the building may not survive another winter?
§ LORD SANDFORDYes, my Lords, the Department stands ready to give any help or advice that we can, especially through our Historic Buildings Bureau, if the question of a new owner is involved. But I cannot comment further than that because some of the statutory procedures which could arise, such as the refusal of a 1404 further listed building consent, or compulsory acquisition, would involve my right honourable friend, the Secretary of State.
§ LORD LEATHERLANDMy Lords, in view of the fact that the Manor bears a certain name, and in order that this may not be misrepresented or misunderstood in the Press, would the noble Lord assure the House once again that this Manor has nothing to do with him? Furthermore, as we have heard that this was once the home of Nell Gwynne, if a plaque is at some time installed on the building saying, "Nell Gwynne slept here", will it it also say with whom?
§ LORD SANDFORDMy Lords, the noble Lord will perhaps recall that I did this on a previous occasion. But I am glad to reassure noble Lords that my family has no connection, either with the building or with the lady in question.