asked the First Commissioner of Works how long the Geological Museum will be closed for repairs, in view of the importance of the museum to the nation; and will he state why the structural alterations and repairs now being undertaken were not commenced before?

It has now been decided to proceed with the erection of a new building at South Kensington to house the offices of the Geological Survey and the Museum of Practical Geology, and a Supplementary Estimate for the provision of funds for this purpose is being presented to the House at an early date. The repairs required to the present building to enable it to be re-opened to the public are not being proceeded with, but the administrative work of the Geological Survey will still be carried on, and the public will have access to the library and map room. As regards the last part of the question, the execution of the structural alterations and repairs was suspended pending a decision as to the future of the Museum.

Has it been definitely decided to sell the freehold of the site in Jermyn Street; if so, when will the old museum be closed, and will the new one be complete before the old one is handed over?

It has not yet been decided.

When it is decided, will some of the Members of this House be sent there?

Why not nationalise it?