§ Mr. Gowasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the total cost to date of the acquisition and conversion of the building in Cardiff for the proposed Welsh Assembly; what would be the cost of completing the conversion work; and whether he will now give instructions for the building to be sold as quickly as possible.
§ Mr. MarksThe estimated cost of converting the Exchange building for use by the Welsh Assembly is £3,500,000 of which some £42,000 has been spent on preparatory work. The building is held on a 20-year lease with a break after 10 years. The future use of the building will be a matter for further consideration.
§ Mr. Maxwell-Hyslopasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he has taken to prevent any further expenditure from central Government funds on the provision of buildings, accommodation, fittings and equipment intended for the Welsh Assembly since the result of the referendum became known on Friday 2 March; and what action he is taking to reimburse such expenditure by selling such items or otherwise disposing of them.
§ Mr. MarksWork on the conversion of the Exchange for use by the Welsh Assembly was suspended following the statement by my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Wales on 7 April 1977.—[Vol. 929, c.604.] The Exchange is held on a 20-year lease with a break after 10 years. The future use of the building will be a matter for further consideration.