§ MR. WILLIAM RUTHERFORD (Liverpool, West Derby)I beg to ask the First Commissioner of Works what is the object or utility of the three parallel tunnels now in course of construction at the proposed entrance to the Park from Trafalgar Square; what is the length of each tunnel and the width; whether artificial light is proposed to be used in each tunnel; whether the centre tunnel is intended to be a reserved tunnel, and, if so, under what conditions; who is responsible for the design, and what style of architecture, if any, it is supposed to be; whether the buildings will eventually take the form of a semi-circus on 572 each side; what is the estimated total cost of the buildings constituting the circus and the tunnels; what the buildings are proposed to be used for; and whether he would be willing to give reasonable notice to Parliament before undertaking any works of a similar type.
§ THE FIRST COMMISSIONER OF WORKS (Mr. L. HARCOURT,) Lancashire, RossendaleThe three arches through the new building at the end of the Mall are to convey the traffic from St. James's Park to Trafalgar Square. They vary in length from 37 to 50 feet, and the width of each is 20 feet. No artificial light will be used or required except at night. The centre arch is intended for State occasions. The design was made by Sir Aston Webb, R.A., under directions from the late Government. It was exhibited in the Tea-room of the House for several months before the work was begun, and the hon. Member had ample opportunities of objecting to any portions of it which offended his artistic taste. If there is such a word in the English language as "semi-circus," it does not accurately describe the form which the buildings will ultimately take. The cost of the buildings is provided partly by the Public Buildings Expenses Act of 1903 and partly from monies voted by Parliament after full discussion in this House. The total estimated cost is £180,000. The buildings will provide for an extension of the Admiralty and for residences for the First Lord and the First Sea Lord in lieu of those now occupied by them. It is not at present intended undertake any other works of a similar type, but if any such were projected due notice would be given to Parliament as was done in relation to the present building, and no work would be commenced until Votes had passed the House of Commons.
§ MR. WILLIAM RUTHERFORDDoes the right hon. Gentleman not think it would have been better to have allowed the public entrance to be park to be open instead of under a tunnel?
§ MR. L. HARCOURTI am not inclined now to criticise the decision of my predecessors.
§ MR. L. HARCOURTI should think that some time next year we shall be able to admit traffic through.