§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what representations he has received for funding to keep St. George's hall, Liverpool, in use; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what organisations have made representations to his Department concerning the future of St. George's hall, Liverpool; what replies he has sent; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Patrick JenkinI have received correspondence from the Merseyside Civic Society; the North West Civic Trust; the Liverpool Architectural Society; the Historic Society of Lancashire and Cheshire; the British Institute of Organ Studies; the hon. Members for Liverpool, Walton (Mr. Heffer) and for Liverpool, Mossley Hill (Mr. Alton), and from my hon. Friends the Members for Wallasey (Mrs. Chalker) for Wirral, West (Mr. Hunt) and for Wirral, South (Mr. Porter), and two interested individuals. A number of organisations have suggested that the Government should give financial assistance.
The building is in the ownership of Liverpool city council and I have asked it to put forward proposals for its future use. I have received no proposals as yet, but I hope to hear from the city council shortly. I have told it that, if constructive proposals are submitted, I am prepared to consider some help under the urban programme.
I am writing to correspondents this week confirming the position and responding to any more detailed points they have made.
I will keep all hon. Members who have expressed an interest informed of developments.