§ Mr. Alexander W. Lyonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what is his policy in relation to the Esher Report on Conservation for York; and whether he will honour the undertaking to pay one-half of the loss occasioned by expenditure on conservation.
§ Mr. Graham PageThe Esher Report is a valuable guide to the problems of conservation in the historic centre of York. Many of its detailed recommendations are a matter primarily for the local planning authority, which has carried out a thorough study of them, and some may have to come before my right hon. Friend in accordance with statutory procedures. The proposal to pay one-half the loss incurred in expenditure on conservation is a recommendation of the Preservation Policy Group's report, which is not related solely to York and would require legislation. I understand, however, that the York City Council is preparing proposals for a pilot conservation project in part of the city, and my right hon. Friend would be prepared to consider the extent to which he could co-operate in this project.