asked the Secretary of State for the Environment, when the demolition of Palace Chambers, Bridge Street, will be completed; and if he will make a statement.

Demolition has now been completed down to first-floor level. This has removed the danger from overstressing of the supporting structure which had necessitated early demolition of the building. I propose to retain what remains temporarily, and to allow shops to continue trading on the ground floor, while plans for a new building are under consideration.