§ Mr. Sproatasked the Secretary of State for the Environment why plaster and paint is peeling from some inside walls of the Royal high school, Edinburgh; how long the building has been in this state; what is the estimated cost of repairing this damage; whether there is any other damage; what the cost of repairing this will be; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergLining paper on the plaster of one staircase has become detached since refurbishment of the former Royal high school building was completed in June 1979. This was caused by condesation due to the low temperature at which the building has been kept, on energy-conversation grounds, while it is unoccupied. The estimated cost of repairs is £250; they will be undertaken as part of the scheme announced by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland on 14 January 1981, primarily to house the Crown Office in the building. The problem will not recur when the building is in use. I am not aware of any other damage.—[Vol. 996, c. 1363.]