HC Deb 04 March 1886 vol 302 cc1999-2000
MR. BERESFORD HOPE

I beg to move that the debate be now adjourned, and for this reason—that this is the only opportunity we shall have of discussing the question of the sites for the new Admiralty and War Offices, which has been brought very prominently before our notice in the columns of the Press during the past few days, and which involve very important considerations. It is doubtful whether the plans the Government have decided upon are the best which could be obtained; and I, therefore, think it is desirable that we should have an opportunity of discussing the matter.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Debate be now adjourned."—(Mr. Beresford Hope.)

MR. W. H. SMITH

This is a matter of great importance; and as it is desirable that there should be no delay in considering the subject, I trust my right hon. Friend (Mr. Beresford Hope) will have the opportunity he seeks given to him.

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. CHILDERS)

I understand the object my right hon. Friend has in view. It is to raise a debate on the plans for the Admiralty and War Office Buildings, with regard to which since last Session there have been proposals and suggestions made by the Society of Architects. Right hon. and hon. Gentlemen wish to have a debate on the subject; well, obviously, the proper time for such a discussion will be when the Vote for the buildings in the Estimates come on in Committee of Supply. There is a separate and distinct Vote in the Estimates for the proposed Admiralty and War Office. It is in the 1st Class, amongst the Votes for Public Buildings.

MR. W. H. SMITH

I would make a suggestion to the right hon. Gentleman the Secretary of State for the Home Department. Could not an arrangement be made by which that Vote could be taken at a particular time, on a particular day, so as to afford a fair opportunity for the discussion of the matter, which is very important?

MR. SPEAKER

Does the right hon. Gentleman (Mr. Beresford Hope) withdraw his Motion?

MR. BERESFORD HOPE

I do.

Motion, by leave, withdrawn.

Main Question, "That Mr. Speaker do now leave the Chair," put, and agreed to.