§ SIR GEORGE CAMPBELL (Kirkcaldy, &c.)asked the First Commissioner of Works, What is to be done with the space between Westminster Hall and the road, formerly occupied by the Law Courts, when the repairs of the Hall are finished; whether that space 1753 will be reserved for use in case, in consequence of change of procedure or otherwise, it becomes necessary to add new chambers to the Houses of Parliament; what use is to be made of Westminster Hall when repaired; and, whether he will reserve the Hall to be the Central Hall of Parliament, in case chambers for portions of the House are erected on the outer side?
§ THE FIRST COMMISSIONER (Mr. PLUNKET) (Dublin University)The plans for the restoration of Westminster Hall, which were approved by the Select Committee of 1885, and which are now being carried out, did not include any proposals for dealing with the space between the new buildings and the roadway; but I have been for some time in communication with Mr. Pearson, and we hope soon to arrive at a definite conclusion on the subject. Westminster Hall will remain, after the restorations have been completed, as it was before they were commenced. I have never heard of any project for adding new chambers for portions of the House such as is suggested by the Question of the hon. Member.
§ SIR GEORGE CAMPBELLasked, whether there was not already, on the other side of Westminster Hall, a chamber which was intended at one period for a Grand Committee Room; and whether it would not be given up to any other purpose without bringing the matter before the House and taking a Vote?
§ MR. PLUNKETstated that with regard to the buildings called restorations, no doubt there were in them some very good rooms, which he thought would be of great advantage and convenience to the Members of the Houses; but he had not heard of any proposal to extend them further.
§ MR. SHAW LEFEVRE (Bradford, Central)Do I understand that it is in contemplation to erect any building in Westminster Hall?
§ MR. PLUNKETNone whatever.