§ Mr. BowisTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage if he will make a statement on the condition of the fabric of the Albert memorial; and what plans he has to restore and conserve it.
120W
§ Mr. Brooke[holding answer 29 March 1993]: A condition survey carried out in 1991 identified the need for considerable repairs to the ironwork, leadwork, stone-work, decorative tiling, statues and mosaics. A restoration scheme has therefore been prepared which addresses all these matters. The estimated cost of restoration is over £10 million. In view of the many demands on public resources at a time of very tight public expenditure control, I have had to postpone a start on this project. However, the Government remain committed to a worthy restoration of the Albert memorial. In the meantime, the protection and safety of the memorial is being assured.