HC Deb 02 April 1928 vol 215 cc1584-5
30. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether his attention has been called to the unsightly fire hydrant at the end of the walk on the south front of Kensington Palace immediately behind the statute of William III; and whether he will consider placing this hydrant further to the east where it would be screened by a shrubbery?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Lieut.-Colonel Sir Vivian Henderson)

The First Commissioner is of opinion that the fire hydrant in question, which has been in its present position for about 25 years, is not so unsightly as to warrant the expense entailed by its removal.

Sir W. DAVISON

Has my hon. and gallant Friend seen the horrible scarlet red of this hydrant against the beautiful rose brickwork of Sir Christopher Wren's building? What is the object of protecting beautiful buildings from vandalism if the Office of Works allow an eyesore of this kind to be retained in a Royal Park?

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Could not the hon. and gallant Gentle man consider painting this hydrant a bright orange colour?

Sir V. HENDERSON

I am quite ready to consider the question of repainting.

Brigadier-General Sir HENRY CROFT

Will the hon. and gallant Member consider the proposal to change the colour from red to orange?

Sir V. HENDERSON

I have already said that I would consider that.

Mr. HOPKINSON

Would it not be much less expensive to move the shrubbery in front of the hydrant?

Sir W. DAVISON

Will the hon. and gallant Member further consider the matter in some way?

Sir V. HENDERSON

I am considering the repainting.

Sir W. DAVISON

That is something!