§ 65 and 68. Sir M. Stoddart-Scottasked the Minister of Public Building and Works (1) if he is satisfied that Fountains Abbey will be made accessible to the public by the new owners; and what assurances he has received that the fabric of the building will be adequately maintained and the beauty of the surrounding landscape not impaired;
(2) if he is aware that Fountains Abbey and its surrounds have come into the market for the second time within three months; what steps he intends to take to prevent the Abbey from being exploited; and if he will take action to see that the Abbey, Fountains Hall and the surrounding land become public property and are available to the public for all time and maintained in good condition.
§ Mr. C. PannellThe owners have assured me they will continue to maintain the Abbey, respect its surroundings, and provide for public access for as long as they hold the property.
My information is that the Abbey and its immediate surroundings have not again been put up for sale and I am not contemplating making an offer for it.
I would, of course, consider taking the Abbey into guardianship if it was offered to the Ministry.