§ MAJOR RASCH (Essex, Chelmsford)I beg to ask the First Commissioner of Works whether he is aware that the present holder of the post of gatekeeper of Ham Gate, in Richmond Park, is a former valet of the Deputy Ranger; and if he would urge upon the Ranger of Richmond Park the propriety of appointing old soldiers of good character to these offices.
§ THE FIRST COMMISSIONER OF WORKS (Mr. AKERS DOUGLAS, Kent, St. Augustine's)I am informed that the man referred to was formerly in the service of Admiral FitzGeorge, the Deputy Ranger, and that he had been previously in the Royal Navy. I have no right to interfere with the Ranger in the exercise of his patronage; but I may say on the best authority that his Royal Highness does give consideration to the claims of old soldiers, but not to the exclusion of old servants.
§ MAJOR RASCHBut is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a Balaclava veteran has been removed from the Kingston Gate and a domestic servant of the Duke appointed in his place by His Royal Highness as Ranger?
§ MR. AKERS DOUGLASNo, Sir, I have no knowledge of such fact, and, as I have already reminded my hon. and gallant friend, I have no voice in the appointment of these gatekeepers.