HC Deb 28 July 1936 vol 315 cc1331-2W
Captain PLUGGE

asked the Minister of Pensions, as representing the First Commissioner of Works (1) if he can state, in connection with the proposals of the King George V. Memorial Fund Committee, what approximate sum will be required for the clearance of the site and the erection thereon of the proposed statue before any surplus will be available for the provision of playing fields;

(2) whether, in connection with the proposed memorial statue to His late Majesty King George V., any final decision has been reached with regard to the site on which it is to be erected; and whether any increase or decrease in the funds available will make it possible to reconsider the desirability of the site of Westminster House in Parliament Square?

Mr. HUDSON

My Noble Friend is advised that the Memorial Fund Committee are not yet in a position to give a definite estimate of cost for the acquisition of all the properties on the site, and for the erection of the proposed statue. The sum must necessarily be a large one, but in view of the negotiations which will take place it is obviously undesirable to mention precise figures. The committee have already given assurances that not less than half the sum contributed by the public will be available for the provision of playing fields, and there is no intention of giving the statue a prior claim on the fund. As mentioned by Lord Macmillan in a statement broadcast on behalf of the committee on 22nd July, it depends on the amount of money received whether the complete scheme at Westminster can be carried out. There is no reason to anticipate at this stage that the proportion of the money available for the purpose will be inadequate, but, should this prove to be the case, it will be possible for the committee to consider whether they will proceed with a less complete but still dignified scheme at the same place.

The Committee would welcome the co-operation of the Members of this House in bringing to the notice of their constituents an appeal which seeks to honour the memory of His late Majesty, both by so signal a national memorial at Westminster, and by the provision at the same time of centres of recreation and enjoyment throughout the country.