HC Deb 24 April 1896 vol 39 cc1696-7

Considered in Committee.

[Mr. J. W. LOWTHER in the Chair.]

Motion made, and Question again proposed, That it is expedient to authorise the payment, out of moneys to be provided by Parliament, of any expenses incurred by the Commissioners of Works under the provisions of any Act of the present Session for the acquisition of a Site for Public Offices in Westminster, and for purposes connected therewith. —(Mr. Hanbury.)

MR. T. LOUGH (Islington, W.)

asked that some explanation should be given of the Vote.

*THE FIRST COMMISSIONER OF WORKS (Mr. AKERS-DOUGLAS,) Kent, St. Augustine's

said, this was a money Resolution securing the payment of money for the purchase of the Westminster site for public offices. The Bill was read a Second time the other night and this was simply a Resolution authorising the expenditure of the money which was provided by an Act of last Session.

MR. LLOYD-GEORGE (Carnarvon Boroughs)

said, that last night they were asked to vote £300,000 without any explanation, and now they were asked to vote a sum of which they had had no previous knowledge. There was nothing on the Paper to indicate what the; amount was.

And, it being Midnight, the Chairman left the Chair to make his Report to the House.

Committee report Progress; to sit again upon Monday next.