§ Mr. BOOTHasked the hon. Member for Southampton, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether he has now increased the number of firemen on duty at the Abbey; and if he can now state what is the sum for which the building is insured against fire and tempest?
TREASURER of the HOUSEHOLD (Mr. Dudley Ward)The number of firemen has been increased and four are now engaged, two by day and two by night. I am informed that the Dean and Chapter insure the Abbey and its contents for £50,000; and that the insurance office, being satisfied with the precautions taken, requires no extra premium in consequence of the works now proceeding. As no amount of insurance could compensate for the destruction of the Abbey, the precautions against fire are the essential point.