MR. GOLDSMIDasked the First Commissioner of Works, What steps he proposes to take with regard to the non-fulfilment of the contract entered into two years ago by Mr. Collman the upholsterer for the completion of the Wellington monument?
LORD HENRY LENNOXI believe, Sir, the hon. Member for Rochester was not in his place the other evening when the Committee of Supply voted the sum of £500 towards the completion of this long delayed Wellington Monument. At the same time, I asked for and obtained a vote of confidence while I renewed negotiations with Mr. Stevens and with the gentleman to whom the late Treasury entrusted the carrying on of this work. I pledged myself then, and I renew the pledge now, that before the end of the Session. I will let hon. Members know whether my efforts have been successful or not. Under those circumstances, I hope neither the House nor the hon. Member will deem me guilty of discourtesy if, at the present time, I refrain from giving any more definite answer to this Question.