§ Mr. BOOTHasked the hon. Member for Southampton, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, if highly inflammable material is being used inside and adjacent to Westminster Abbey; and whether he has considered the necessity of the use of asbestos and the advisability for steeping the timber used in specially prepared solution to avoid the danger of conflagration?
Mr. DUDLEY WARDThere is a considerable quantity of timber in and around Westminster Abbey and the question of treating it with a view to rendering it fire proof was carefully considered, the proposal, however, was not found to be practicable. Every precaution against fire is being taken, and the arrangements which have been made meet with the full approval of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade who have been consulted throughout.
Sir GILBERT PARKERCan the hon. Gentleman say why it was not found practicable to treat the woodwork with asbestos?