Lord Campbell of Croyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What action they are taking in Scotland, when war memorials are to be destroyed as part of demolition or redevelopment of places of worship belonging to the Church of Scotland and other Churches, to ensure the preservation of the names of those who died; and whether they are consulting the organisation "Friends of War Memorials".
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Scottish Office (Lord Sewel)The Government do not take any action in these circumstances. Churches which are in ecclesiastical use are exempt from listed building control and most changes can proceed without reference to the Secretary of State. Churches which are no longer in ecclesiastical use are subject to listed building consent. The Secretary of State would be consulted by the planning authority should consent be sought for changes to listed premises. The Church of Scotland and the Roman Catholic Church issue guidance on preserving war memorials or retaining records, should memorials be destroyed. So far as I am aware, neither the Government nor Historic Scotland has any contact with "Friends of War Memorials".