§ SIR ALGERNON BORTHWICK (Kensington, S.)asked the First Commissioner of Works, Whether, with regard to the great number of burials in the Brompton Cemetery, which is now surrounded by a dense and increasing population, he will direct a Return of the number of burials up to date, and of the daily and yearly averages; and, whether, in compliance with the Acts relating to intramural interments, he will direct that this cemetery, the property of Government, be closed?
§ THE FIRST COMMISSIONER (Mr. PLUNKET) (Dublin University)In answer to the first part of the Question of my hon. Friend, as I have already stated, the total number of burials at Brompton Cemetery up to February 1613 last was 135,617, and the average during the last three years has been in round numbers, 5,000. I shall always be glad to give information on this subject; but I do not think it is necessary to publish an annual Return. As to the second part of the question, under the Acts referred by my hon. Friend the Secretary of State is the authority who decides as to the closing of burial grounds; but special provision is made in those Acts for the keeping open of Brompton Cemetery, subject to special Rules and Regulations laid down by the Home Office. I cannot admit that any case has been made out for the closing of the cemetery.
§ SIR ALGERNON BORTHWICKgave Notice that on an early occasion he would call attention to the subject.