asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning what was the purchase price paid by the Bracknell New Town Development Corporation for Farley Hall; and the estimated cost of adapting it to the Corporation's requirements.

This is a matter of detailed administration, which I am content to leave to the Development Corporation. In accordance with the normal practice, the price paid for this property was negotiated by the district valuer.

In view of the local understanding that this building, which was a hotel, is to be adapted, will he advise the Corporation to use the utmost economy in adapting the building to their requirements?

Yes, I should expect them to use the utmost economy, but, on the other hand, their job is to build a town, and for that they must have proper headquarters accommodation. But I have every reason to believe that they are behaving with proper economy and energy.