§ Mr. William Hamiltonasked the Minister of Public Building and Works why the provisional estimate for the reconstruction of the Stable Yard at St. James's Palace as offices for the Royal Household has increased from £72,000 to £100,000; when he expects the work to be completed; how much office space will be provided; and for which officials of the Household.
§ Mr. PrenticeThis is a difficult work of reconstruction of an old building. It is now clear that reconstruction on the lines proposed would cost a great deal more than the provisional estimates. I cannot be certain at this stage, but present indications are that the cost may be at least £130,000-£140,000.Work has not yet started. The plans provide for a total area of about 13,500 square feet of which about 5,250 square feet are office space for the Lord Chamberlain's Office, the Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps and the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood.