HC Deb 21 July 1884 vol 290 c1750
MR. GRAY

asked the Chairman of the Metropolitan Board of Works, Whether he is aware that the two top stories of the new monster hotel at the corner of Northumberland Avenue and the Embankment are apparently built of wood; and, whether this is in accordance with the Metropolitan Building Bye-Laws?

SIR JAMES M'GAREL HOGG

I beg to inform the hon. Member that the building in question is constructed in accordance with the Metropolitan Building Act. There is nothing in the Act to prevent two or more stories in the roof being built of wood, provided such stories are covered externally with incombustible materials. If such a system of building is objectionable it is a defect in the Act, and it would require another Act of Parliament to effect an alteration.