HC Deb 03 May 1900 vol 82 c590
MR. MONK (Gloucester)

I beg to ask the First Commissioner of Works whether his attention has been called to the impurities in the ornamental water in St. James's Park; and whether stops can be taken to prevent the floating mass of decayed matter, from which the effluvium is of an offensive character, from entering the water.

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

I am not aware that there is anything unusual in the present condition of the lake. At this time of year there is a rapid growth of weed, which is drawn off as much as possible. No decaying matter from outside enters the water. The lake is emptied and thoroughly cleaned every third year.