§ MR. OTWAYsaid, he would beg to ask whether the report was correct that stated that Mr. Ford, one of the Royal Commissioners appointed to determine the site of the National Gallery, had resigned his appointment, and if so, whether it was the intention of Her Majesty's Government to recommend any other gentleman for the vacant office?
THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUERsaid, it was quite true that Mr. Ford, who was appointed a member of that Commission, had been unable to act, and it was not the intention of the Government at present to fill up the vacancy.
§ MR. GRANVILLE VERNONsaid, as he also had given notice of a question on the same subject, perhaps he might be allowed to inquire still more emphatically of the First Lord of the Treasury whether the Government would not think it right to fill up the vacancy which many persons much regretted was caused by the refusal of Mr. Ford to act on that Commission.
§ VISCOUNT PALMERSTONsaid, his right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer had stated that, as far as the Government were informed, it was not necessary to appoint any one in the place of Mr. Ford. If it should appear to be desirable the Government would then fill up the vacancy.