§ Dr. Mawhinneyasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he has completed his consultations on the future organisation of historic monuments and buildings in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David MitchellViews were invited from a number of bodies in Northern Ireland. None of the replies were in favour of setting up an independent body. Therefore, I have agreed that in the particular circumstances of Northern Ireland it would be better to retain the present arrangements under which the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland is responsible for the organisation of historic monuments and buildings. In so doing I shall ensure that the suggestions made about improving the present arrangements are, where possible, taken into account. I will also watch developments in England closely to see what lessons can be learnt.