§ MR. WARMINGTON (Monmouth, W.)asked the First Commissioner of Works, Whether his attention has been directed to the offensive and injurious smells prevalent in the House and the corridors; and, whether he can state the cause of such smells; and, what steps, if any, have been taken to remove the cause of such smells, and to insure, as far as practicable, purity of air in the House, its corridors, and offices?
§ THE FIRST COMMISSIONER (Mr. PLUNKET) (Dublin University)My attention has been, from time to time, directed to the offensive smells prevalent in this House and its corridors, and very recently. I am perfectly satisfied that they do not proceed from any defect in the drainage of the Palace, which is, I believe, now in as perfect a state as 376 modern science can make it. I have no doubt that these smells come to us from outside. Observations are being made; but we have not yet been able to trace the smells to their true origin.
§ MR. ISAACS (Newington, Walworth)asked, whether the right hon. Gentleman would put himself into communication with the police on duty in and near the House, in order that they might report upon the emanation of the noxious smells from gullies and ventilators, so that these smells might be traced to their source?
§ MR. CHANNING (Northampton, E.)wished to know whether it was not a fact that the worst smells came from the quadrangle between that part of the House—the Opposition side—and the Tea Room?
§ MR. PLUNKETsaid, he was afraid that the smells from the quadrangle could be equalled by those which he himself had detected on the Government side of the House. He would be glad to accept the suggestion of his hon. Friend (Mr. Isaacs); but he did not think that this kind of offender could be arrested.