§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Environment on what basis he estimated the costs of the damage to Nelson's Column when it was climbed in October; what were the costs of prosecution of the climbers; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Marks:The Column was inspected following the climb on 20th October 1978. The damage to the Column was made good at a cost of £540. The cost was considered reasonable in the light of experience gained from the regular inspection and maintenance of the Column. The prosecution of the climbers was a matter for the police.