§ MR. FLYNNI beg to ask the First Commissioner of Works how many men are now employed at clearing out the mud in St. James's Park; and whether, in view of the present exceptionally severe weather and the great want of employment in London, he will see his way to give employment at this work to as many men as possible?
§ THE FIRST COMMISSIONER OF WORKS (Mr. R. D. PLUNKET,) Dublin UniversityI am informed that early this morning 34 men were at work removing the mud from the lake in St. James's Park, but there was sufficient employment for, say, 16 more, or 50 in all, if suitable men should apply. I may say that as many will be engaged as can be employed with advantage for doing the work with expedition and economy.
§ MR. FLYNNWill the right hon. Gentleman inform me whether there were not more than ten or twelve, or at the outside 14, men engaged last week at this work in St. James's Park?
§ MR. PLUNKETI cannot say; but I have informed the hon. Member that there is sufficient employment for 16 more additional hands.