HC Deb 26 May 1892 vol 4 cc1919-20
DR. TANNER

I beg to ask the First Commissioner of Works whether his attention has been directed to the entirely insufficient provision of catering and attendance in the new refreshment rooms in Kew Gardens on Sundays and holidays; and why the major number of waiters there employed are Germans, unable to understand the English language?

MR. PLUNKET

I have not heard of any complaints for a long time as to the arrangements with regard to the supply of refreshments at Kew. The truth is that owing to the uncertainty of the weather it is difficult to foresee the number of persons who may go to Kew Gardens on Sundays. So far as I can see, the refreshment department is conducted as well as can be expected.

DR. TANNER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that only last Sunday people were really helping themselves in consequence of the bad attendance there? I should also like to ask how it comes to pass that German waiters have the preference over English waiters?

[No reply was given.]

DR. TANNER

I shall call attention to the matter on the Vote on Account.