PM Transcripts

EMBARGOED: NOT FOR PUBLICATION BEFORE MIDNIGHT 14/ 12/ 67
FOR PRESS: P. M. No. 27/ 1967
BRITISH GIFT TO CANBERRA
Statement by the Prime Minister, Mr. Harold Halt
The British Government's gift to Canberra to mark the
capital's Golden jubilee will be a carilon on Aspen Island in Lake Burley
Griffin. An announcement to this effect is also being made in the House of
Commons by the Prime Minister of Britain.
In 1963, the then Prime Minister of Britain advised the
Australian Government that the British Government would make a gift to
mark the Golden jubilee of Canberra, being celebrated that year. It was
intended that the gift make a significant contribution to the development of
Canberra and reflect Britain's and Australia's common parliamentary
heritage. It was suggested at the time that the gift might take the form of a
set or ornamental fountains or a bell tower.
Subsequently the Australian Government proposed that
the gift take the form of a structure housing a carillon to be erected on
Aspen Island. In consultation with the Royal British Institute of
Ardhitects and the Royal Australian institute of Architects, it has been agreed
that there should be a limited competition for the design: three Australian
architects and three British architects will be invited to take part. The
assessors for the competition will be Lord Holford, Mr. Bedford ( the Chief
Architect of the British Ministry of Public Building and Works), and Mr.
Overall ( Chairman of the National Capital Planning Committee). The winning
design will be put before the British and Australian Governments for
consideration before being adopted.
The British Government estimates the cost of the gift.
including the competititon, as being about OEStg. 2CC, 000.
The carillon will be a notable addition and asset to the
National Capital. The Australian Government warmly welcomes the British
Govenmen's generous and symbolic gift.
CANBERRA 14th February, 19.67