HL Deb 01 March 1983 vol 439 cc1033-4

2.50 p.m.

Lord Sandys

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 when the reconstruction of Richmond Terrace, Whitehall, will be completed.

Lord Skelmersdale

My Lords, the current stabilisation work on the terrace is due for completion in July. In his press announcement of 12th August 1982 my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for the Environment said that the main development of the Richmond Yard site, which includes the restoration of Richmond Terrace, will commence in 1983. The Property Services Agency is considering arrangements for the handling of the development with a view to completing it no later than 1987. The restoration of the facades will be put in hand early in the programme.

Lord Sandys

My Lords, while thanking my noble friend for his reply, may I ask whether he is aware that this contract was originally put on the stocks in 1970? Does he not consider this an excessively long time, despite the facts and notwithstanding the considerable difficulties, and will he assure the House that the fixtures and fittings are receiving suitable attention in store meanwhile?

Lord Skelmersdale

My Lords, my noble friend is not quite right. Although this matter does have a very long history, and goes back to 1970 under a Labour Government who put in hand the Willis Inquiry to consider what should be done with the site, a contract was not agreed to be let until as late as 1979. So far as the removable fixtures and fittings are concerned—if that is not a contradiction in terms—I can confirm that these were surveyed and that the important items which will be relevant to the history of the house have been put in store and are being properly looked after.

Viscount St. Davids

My Lords, in asking a supplementary question on this matter may I declare an interest in that I believe I am the only Member of your Lordships' House who was actually born there? Is there any way in which Members of this House can see over the building as it stands or see any of the artefacts which have been preserved? Can the noble Lord write to me and explain how it might be possible to look over the old home, so to speak?

Lord Skelmersdale

My Lords, looking over the old home might be more appropriate when it is completely restored and rebuilt. However, I shall certainly look into the matter and advise the noble Viscount. So far as viewing the artefacts is concerned, if the noble Viscount wishes to burrow into packing cases in the South Midlands, I am sure that can be arranged.