§ Mr. ConwayTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage (1) what discussions he has had with English Heritage with regard to Pitchford hall, Shrewsbury; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what action he has taken to save Pitchford hall, Shrewsbury for the nation;
(3) what discussions he has had with the National Heritage Memorial Fund with regard to Pitchford hall, Shrewsbury; and if he will make a statement;
(4) what representations he has had from the National Trust with regard to Pitchford hall, Shrewsbury; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Key[holding answer 13 July 1992]: Neither my right hon. and learned Friend nor I have had any discussions with either English Heritage or the National Heritage Memorial Fund—NHMF—or representations from the National Trust specifically with regard to Pitchford hall, Shrewsbury. However, I am aware that the National Trust is in discussion with the NHMF about the substantial funds which would be needed to enable them to acquire and endow Pitchford hall, its contents and lands. It is for the trustees of the NHMF to decide on the merits of the proposal and whether they are able to offer assistance from the funds available to them.