§ Mr. Hoyleasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how much money was provided to his Department by American interests towards the purchase 407W of Battle Abbey; on what terms and conditions the money was provided; who are the American interests involved; and what undertakings he has made to them.
§ Mr. ShoreThe whole estate was purchased by the Government for £690,000. American interests have generously contributed a sum in excess of £200,000. They have asked that details of the amount and of the contributors should not be disclosed. I hope that it will soon be possible to announce the name of the institution through which the gift will be conveyed. The purpose of the gift is to preserve the Abbey and the battlefield and to secure permanent access for the British public and visitors from abroad. It is for Her Majesty's Government to decide how best to achieve this, and no conditions have been attached to the gift.