asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will make a statement about the position regarding the acquisition of Trafalgar House from the Nelson family for some public purpose.

As I told the House on 3rd December, 1946, I invited my noble Friend, the First Lord of the Admiralty, to consider whether Trafalgar House might not be used for some naval purposes. He has informed me with regret that he has not been able to make such an arrangement. The trustees are, therefore, free to dispose of the house in whatever way they wish.

Could the Chancellor say whether consideration has been given to acquiring this house without all the land?

I am disappointed, as is my noble Friend the First Lord of the Admiralty, that we have not yet been able to arrange anything on the lines I have suggested. I will be very glad to look into the matter further. I am most anxious that the house should, if possible, be turned to some public use.

Will the Chancellor consider inviting other Government Departments to see if they cannot use this house, so that it may remain a national possession?

Yes. I shall be very glad to see what can be done.