MR. W. G. O. BENTINCK (Penryn and Falmouth)asked the First Commis- 958 sioner of Works, Whether Her Majesty's Government are aware that there is a Statue of King James the Second by Grinling Gibbons, hidden away behind Whitehall Chapel; and, whether it would be possible to restore the dilapidated pedestal, and remove the Statue to the north side of Whitehall Chapel opposite the Horse Guards at the entrance to Whitehall Avenue, now in course of construction?
§ SIR GEORGE CAMPBELL (Kirkcaldy, &c.)also asked the right hon. Gentleman whether he was aware that Jame II. was removed from the Throne for misconduct, and that therefore it was quite inappropriate to put his statue in a place of honour?
§ THE FIRST COMMISSIONER (Mr. PLUNKET) (Dublin University)The statue of James II. referred to by my hon. Friend is one of great and recognized merit, and I shall carefully consider whether or not a better site than it now occupies can be found for it; but I think it will be easier to come to a decision on that question and also as to a new pedestal when we are able to appreciate the effect of the street improvements now in progress in the immediate neighbourhood of Whitehall. As to the Question of the hon. Baronet opposite I really must decline to express any opinion.