HL Deb 09 July 1974 vol 353 cc543-4WA
VISCOUNT FURNESS

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will state the cost of

  1. (a) erecting, and
  2. (b) dismantling,
flag poles in the Mall customarily erected for State Visits; and whether it would not be more practical and economical to maintain the flag poles in position during the "State Visit Season".

LORD GARNSWORTHY

My right honourable friend the Secretary of State for the Environment informs me that separate costs for erecting and dismantling are not available as both operations are part of one contract. Circumstances for State Visits vary but the average cost for erecting and dismantling flag poles in the Mall (including Queen Victoria Memorial Gardens) is £16,000. It would not be practical to leave the poles in position. State Visits are not confined to any particular season; security restricts the notice of future Visits; and the wooden poles would be liable to deterioration and could become dangerous if left in place for extended periods.

House adjourned at a quarter before seven o'clock.