§ 75. Mr. Richardsasked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the destruction of Bronze Age burial mounds at Shepton Mallet by the Forestry Commission; and whether he will arrange for an examination of them by a competent archaeologist, with a view to having them scientifically excavated.
§ Mr. NugentThere has been no wanton destruction. Two barrows and certain earthworks were known to be on166W the site acquired by the Forestry Commission and these have not been harmed. During ploughing on the site three other barrows were uncovered and reported by local interests to the Ministry of Works. With one possible exception, that Department have confirmed that the contents of the barrows have not been damaged. They are considering arrangements for a detailed examination of the barrow concerned and, with the full cooperation of the Forestry Commission, are taking measures to safeguard all the earthworks in the area.