§ Mr. Bryan DaviesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to transfer the freehold of Burlington house to a third party.
§ Sir Paul BeresfordA number of learned societies occupy courtyard buildings at Burlington house, which were erected for them in the late 19th century at Government expense. The accommodation has since been provided rent free to the societies, including external and structural repairs. Following recommendations on future management of the Government's civil estate made earlier this year by the Prime Minister's efficiency unit, my Department approached the learned societies to discuss future arrangements for ownership and management of their buildings. At a preliminary meeting in September, it was agreed that it was essential to establish, as clearly as possible, the legal basis for the present arrangements. The societies now anticipate being able to provide copies of the relevant documentation which they hold, early in the new year. Once the legal uncertainties have been resolved, I intend to have discussions with representatives of the societies about the future of their buildings.