§ Resolution reported:
§ "That a Supplementary sum, not exceeding £5,500, be granted to His Majesty, to defray the Charges which will come in course of payment during the year ended 31st March, 1910, for expenditure in respect of Diplomatic and Consular buildings."
§ Resolution read a second time.
§ Mr. JOHN DILLONmoved to reduce the Vote by the sum of £100. I desire an explanation with regard to the charge in connection with the transfer of the Villa Rosebery to His Majesty's Government. What is the object of the transfer, and what is the total sum paid for the villa?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Harcourt)I explained the whole of this matter last night; but, as the hon. Member evidently did not hear me, I may say that the so-called Villa Rosebery has been most generously presented by Lord Rosebery to the British Government for the use of the British, Ambassador in Rome during those portions of the year when Rome is not in its most healthy condition. The sum which the House is asked to vote is only that which is necessary to pay the transfer duty, which in Italy is higher than it is in this country; and the Government have naturally paid that amount on receiving this very generous gift for diplomatic purposes from Lord Rosebery.
§ Mr. DILLONI was not aware that the right hon. Gentleman had explained the item.
§ Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.
§ Resolution agreed to.