HC Deb 01 December 1992 vol 215 cc167-8W
Sir Nicholas Fairbairn

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which organisations are responsible for advising his Department on the care of historic buildings and ancient monuments in the ownership of his Department; and what role is played by the statutory bodies with general responsibilities in this area in(a) England, (b) Scotland, (c) Wales and (d) Northern Ireland.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

The organisations which advise the Ministry of Defence on the care of historic buildings are:

  1. (a) The Department of National Heritage;
  2. (b) The Department of Environment (Conservation Unit);
  3. (c) English Heritage;
  4. (d) Historic Scotland;
  5. (e) Cadw;
  6. (f) Department of Environment for Northern Ireland.

The Department obtains advice and clearance from the relevant bodies when it intends to either demolish, alter or extend an historic building.

Sir Nicholas Fairbairn

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make it his policy to ensure that historic buildings and ancient monuments in his Department's ownership or care are maintained and protected to the same standards as if they were in private ownership.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

My Department is fully aware of the important responsibilities which come with the ownership of historic buildings on the defence estate and aims for the highest standards of conservation.