§ MR. LABOUCHEREsaid, he wished to ask the First Commissioner of Public Works, Whether, in accordance with the wishes of the inhabitants of Chelsea, a larger number of gates leading into the inner and outer Gardens of Chelsea Hospital can be left open during the day time; whether the inner Garden can remain open as long as the outer Garden; and, whether a greater number of benches can be erected in both Gardens for the use of those who frequent them?
§ LORD JOHN MANNERSsaid, in reply, that as no communication had been made to him by the inhabitants of Chelsea on, the subject he was not prepared to say that any more gates were required to be opened for their accommodation. The inner garden was in immediate proximity to the Hospital, and it was necessary for the 1027 comfort and accommodation of the inmates of the Hospital that the inner garden should be closed at an earlier period than the outer gardens. He therefore did not think it would be right or proper to keep the inner gates open for a longer period than at present adopted. No report had been made to him that the number of benches was insufficient. If the hon. Gentleman would point out where there was a deficiency, no doubt steps would be taken to supply what were wanted.