§ MR. SHAW LEFEVRE (Bradford, Central)asked the First Commissioner of Works, Whether his attention has been drawn to a proposed gigantic addition to the already enormous and unsightly structure overlooking St. James's Park, and known as Queen Anne's Mansions; and, whether he can, in the interests of the health, safety, 197 and appearance of the whole neighbourhood, interfere to prevent the addition to this huge building of another mass, or cliff, about 600 feet in total length, and about 150 feet in total height, thus more than trebling its present size?
§ THE FIRST COMMISSIONER (Mr. PLUNKET) (Dublin University)My attention has not been officially called to the proposed additions to Queen Anne's Mansions referred to by the right hon. Gentleman; but, since the Question was put on the Paper, I have ascertained that, with a view to preventing the Guards' Chapel at Wellington Barracks from being injuriously affected by the new building, the War Office applied about a week ago to the Metropolitan Board of Works. But what course that Body may adopt I cannot undertake to say. I am myself making inquiries in order to ascertain whether I have any means of interfering in the interests of St. James's Park, to which I think such a structure as is described in the Question of the right hon. Gentleman would be a great disfigurement; otherwise I have no authority in the matter.
§ MR. LAWSON (St. Pancras, W.)asked, what jurisdiction the Metropolitan Board of Works had in the matter?
§ MR. PLUNKETsaid, he had not stated that the Board had any jurisdiction. He said that he did not know what course they would take.