THE EARL OF HARROWBYasked Her Majesty's Government:
When and where they last built any public building in traditional style and whether they have any plans for future buildings of this type; furthermore, if they have no such plans, whether they feel that there is no degree of public significance in certain buildings of exceptional importance which would justify them in moving away from glass and concrete and synthetic construction materials.
§ LORD GARNSWORTHYThe last major Government building designed in 483WA neo-classical style was Whitehall Gardens, occupied by the Ministry of Defence and completed in 1958. There are no plans for future buildings of this type. All Government buildings are intended to be constructed of materials that are: compatible with their surroundings; appropriate to the function of the building; economic in first costs and in use; and within the skill of available labour. Government are aware that there are aesthetic and other reasons against the excessive use of glass and concrete in public building and natural materials are used where environmental considerations require them and costs are acceptable.