§ MR. ALLHUSEN (Salisbury)I beg to ask the First Commissioner of Works whether the designs by Mr. Young and Mr. Brydon for the new Government buildings have been definitely approved by the Committee; and, if not, whether he will procure and place in the tearoom of the House a sketch of a design for the new War Office buildings, which has been adapted at the suggestion of Lord Wemyss from the existing designs by Inigo Jones for a Royal Palace in Whitehall?
§ THE FIRST COMMISSIONER OF WORKS (Mr. AKERS-DOUGLAS, Kent, St. Augustine's)The designs of Mr. Young and Mr. Brydon were approved by Her Majesty's Government before they were submitted to the House. I have carefully considered the sketch elevation prepared at the suggestion of Lord Wemyss, and I regret that although externally attractive, as a design for a Royal Palace, it is unsuitable for Government offices. There would be no useful purpose served in placing this design in the tea-room, unless it is accompanied by a plan and sections showing the nature and arrangement of the accommodation it would provide.
§ MR. J. ELLIS (Nottingham, Rushcliffe)May I ask whether the plans will be placed in a prominent part of the House for the inspection of honourable Members?
§ MR. AKERS-DOUGLASThe plans were placed in the tea-room for the inspection and criticism of honourable Members. Certain alterations in matters of detail have been suggested, and these suggestions will be carefully considered. Generally the plans have been most favourably received, and I shall proceed with the work without any unnecessary delay.