§ Mr. Dobsonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many ancient monuments are managed and maintained by his Department; how many have been closed to the public during 1980–81; how many have had their hours of public access reduced in 1980–81; what proposals he has for further closures or reductions in hours of access; and what is the total net saving to date and expected.
§ Mr. MonroMy Department manages and maintains 386 ancient monuments. In the period from 1 April 1980 to date 19 monuments hitherto open to the public have been closed. A further two monuments previously open all the year round have been closed for the 1980–81 winter season. Reductions in opening hours have occurred at 19 other monuments. The net savings cannot be calculated until accounts for receipts of admission fees and sales have been returned from all monuments. All the monuments will be open to the public from 1 April 1981.