UNESCO: Westminster World Heritage Site

Baroness Andrews Excerpts

Thursday 26th March 2015 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Jolly]

I am not sure that I can name an individual, but my understanding is that the House of Commons Commission and the House of Lords House Committee are working together on this issue.

[Baroness Andrews (Lab)]

My Lords, can the noble Baroness confirm that the original reason why Mr Pickles did not call in this application was because he said that it did not have national significance—something that contradicted the best possible statutory advice and the reality of the application? This is probably the most famous building and skyline in the world. Could she tell me what does constitute “national significance” in the light of Mr Pickles’ judgment, and perhaps give some examples of how he has applied that judgment?

[Baroness Jolly]

Regrettably, I do not have the ear of Mr Pickles, so I am unable to do so.