§ MR. COOPEasked the First Commissioner of Works, What progress has been made in the buildings for the extension of the National Gallery, for which a vote was taken last year, and when is it probable that they may be completed and thrown open for the use of the public?
§ MR. SHAW LEFEVREsaid, that tenders were invited two days ago for the first portion of these buildings. It was hoped the whole building would be completed in about three years from the present time.
§ MR. COOPEWill the right hon. Gentleman the First Commissioner of Works inform the House why tenders were only sought for so recently, the Vote for this purpose having been passed 12 months ago?
§ MR. SHAW LEFEVREThere have teen unavoidable delays in making arrangements with the Trustees and the War Office, to whom the land belongs.
§ MR. COOPEWill the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that no further unnecessary delay will occur?
§ MR. SHAW LEFEVRECertainly.