§ MR. RITCHIEasked the First Commissioner of Works, Whether the light of the clock in the Tower of the Houses of Parliament is extinguished at midnight when the House is not sitting; and, if so, whether, seeing the great advantage of an illuminated clock in such a prominent position, he will give instructions that in future the light be not extinguished until daylight?
LORD HENRY LENNOXI am much obliged to my hon. Friend for having put this Question. It is true that the light in the Clock Tower is extinguished at midnight when the House is not sitting; but, as it has been represented to me that it would be a great convenience, especially during the winter months, to the working classes and others who are compelled to leave their houses at an early hour, I will give the necessary directions that the light shall be kept burning until daylight.