HC Deb 25 November 1965 vol 721 cc100-1W
Mr. Palmer

asked the Prime Minister what further repairs are being undertaken in No. 10 Downing Street.

The Prime Minister

Despite the £1 million spent in 1960 to 1963 on repair and renovation of Nos. 10, 11 and 12 Downing Street, it has become clear that repairs are required to the State Drawing Room of No. 10 Downing Street. It was not considered necessary at the time of the major reconstruction to strip off the wall in question, and it is now probable that dry rot was present at that time. Furthermore, some damage was done during the reconstruction which may have made the condition of the wall worse.

The necessary work, estimated to cost about £15,000, has been put in hand. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Public Building and Works has now carried out a searching inquiry and I am studying his report.