§ MR. BAILLIE COCHRANEsaid, he would beg to ask the right hon. Gentleman the First Commissioner of Works, Whether any engagement has been made by Her Majesty's Government—whether any agreement has been entered into with Captain Fowke, to pay him for those designs which had been exhibited by him at the Exhibition at the National Gallery. There were in that Exhibition two façades extending over the whole space of the Exhibition Building. He wished to know whether those designs have been made at Captain Fowke's expense, or whether there is any understanding on the part of the Government to remunerate him? Also, whether, if there is to be any remuneration, and the sum is not included in the Vote, Captain Fowke will be the loser by the amount of time he has devoted to the preparation of these designs?
MR. COWPERsaid, in reply, that as far as his Department was concerned, he was not aware of any arrangement with Captain Fowke. His impression was that Captain Fowke, having designed the Exhibition Building for a temporary purpose, wished to show how, in his idea, that building might be made of an ornamental character. As far as he (Mr. Cowper) knew, Captain Fowke had volunteered his views with regard to these architectural plans.
§ MR. BAILLIE COCHRANEThen I understand, if the Vote should not be carried, Captain Fowke will receive no remuneration?
§ MR. ROEBUCKBut the Vote is carried.