§ LORD BALCARRES (Lancashire, Chorley)I beg to ask the First Commissioner of Works whether he can state what progress has been made in the acquisation of properties needed for the isolation of the National Gallery, as specified in the Act passed during last session.
§ THE FIRST COMMISSIONER OF WORKS (Mr. AKERS DOUGLAS,) Kent, St. AugustinesArrangements have been in negotiation for the acquisition of all these properties, and provision for the purchases is made in the estimates for 1902–03. As soon as possible, after the 1st of April next, the purchases will be completed. I hope that possession will be obtained and the premises demolished this summer.