HC Deb 16 January 1978 vol 942 cc26-7W
Mr. Stephen Ross

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will now make a statement on the future application of the Land Fund and about his general policy regarding the purchase of properties and chattels of importance to the nation.

Mr. Joel Barnett

Government policy continues to be to use the National Loan Fund wherever possible and appropriate, alongside the other instruments available for the preservation of the heritage, to help to acquire properties and chattels of importance to the nation. In the current year, for example, over £3 million is expected to be spent and acquisitions made so far include the Blenheim archives and Cragside House, grounds and chattels.

The Government will in due course be considering the report of the Environment Sub-Committee of the Expenditure Committee, which has been examining the National Land Fund.