§ Mr. Whiteheadasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he is taking to ensure that Kedleston Hall passes to the nation in its entirety without loss of its furnishings; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HeseltineI met my noble Friend Viscount Scarsdale on Tuesday 15 July to discuss the future of Kedleston Hall. I recognise that Kedleston and its principal contents represent an important part of the nation's heritage and have promised that the Government would consider urgently and sympathetically an approach from Viscount Scarsdale offering them in lieu of capital tax. Meanwhile, the relevant Government Departments will maintain close links with Viscount Scarsdale's advisers and there will be full consultation if the question of any further sales of individual items from the Hall arises.
I will make a full statement to the House at the appropriate time.