CELG(4) HIS 55

Communities, Equality and Local Government Committee

Inquiry into the Welsh Government’s Historic Environment Policy

Response from Jill Morgan

Dear Sir/Madam

Re. Inquiry Into The Welsh Government's Historic Policy

As the owner of an ancient farmstead (with the first reference to the holding being in 1326 in 'The Black Book of St Davids' - and with the farmhouse and also ten farm buildings and structures being Grade II listed - I oppose and strongly object to the proposed merging of the Royal Commission with Cadw and other organisations.

The Royal Commission is not only a venerable and distinguished body, it is an efficient, very useful and very productive organisation.

It would be extremely detrimental to its highly integrated working systems and sections if a merger were to take place.

The roles of the Royal Commission and Cadw are completely different. A merger would confuse and cloud the very separate and highly specialist focus and remit of the Royal Commission.

I have experience of involvement with both organisations, having worked for theWales Tourist Board, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Information Service and the St Davids Peninsula Tourist Association. ( I took media groups all round Wales for the WTB.)  I was also involved for many years (with various tour companies) in organising and leading specialist guided tours of Wales for prestigious overseas groups - such as the Smithsonian Institute.

As the proprietor of West Wales Countryside Centres I have also organised and guided many visits to archaeological and historic sites.

I am therefore very aware of the different functions of Cadw and the Royal  Commission.

I have recently become aware that many people and organisations, who would be extremely concerned by the proposed merger - and who would object to it - know nothing about it. One of these was the Fishguard and District Historical Society - who have organised a number of extremely informative talks given by staff of the Royal Commission. (I do not know whether the St Davids and Dewisland District Historical Society are aware of the situation (I have not had time to speak to the Chairman).

 I would like to be able to continue with other reasons for objecting to the merger, but I have been extremely busy with work and other deadlines in the very short time since the National Assembly's announcement of the inquiry into the Welsh Governments historic environment policy. As it is I am racing against time to get this to you, as I have been in Cardiff and my return was delayed for several days by major car problems.

As a Friend of the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales I once again wish to state that I strongly object to the proposal, and I strongly urge the National Assembly to reconsider its position and not to proceed with the proposal for the merger.


Yours faithfully


Jill Morgan  (Ms)