§ 12. Mr. KINGasked whether an eminent architect, other than Mr. Lutyens, has visited India in connection with plans for the new Delhi; whether this architect was consulted by the Viceroy and reported to him in favour of Indian craftsmen being employed in the new Delhi; whether the expenses of this architect's journey were paid by the India Office; and whether, seeing that there is a conflict of expert opinion as to the manner and style in which the new Dehli shall be built, further authorities will be consulted before a decision is taken?
§ Mr. H. BAKERMr. H. V. Lanchester was engaged to pay a visit to India as a consulting expert to advise as to the site for the new city of Delhi, his expenses being paid by the India Office. The further question of the construction of the buildings has yet to be decided, and the Secretary of State is not prepared at present to make a statement on the subject.
§ Mr. KINGWhat was the necessity for sending out Mr. Lanchester if full confidence was placed in the Advisory Committee, which is already out there reporting on this very same question?
§ Mr. H. BAKERI have no doubt there was an advantage in having still another expert.
§ Mr. KELLAWAYAre we to understand from that reply that the designs of the buildings have not yet been settled?
§ Mr. H. BAKERYes. The question of the construction of the buildings has not yet been settled.
§ Mr. KELLAWAYWill Mr. Lanchester's Report be published, so that we may compare it with the Report of the Advisory Committee?
§ Mr. H. BAKERIf the hon. Member will put down a question I will answer it.
§ 13. Mr. KINGasked whether the Government of India and the India Office are aware that there is a traditional school of architects and building craftsmen, in India; and whether their existence will be considered in commissioning architects and builders for the structures to be erected in the new Delhi?
§ Mr. H. BAKERThe circumstance mentioned by the hon. Member will, together with all other relevant circumstances, be duly considered.
§ 11. Mr. KINGasked whether the Viceroy, the Government of India, or the India Office is to decide the question of the architects and style of architecture to be employed in the buildings of the new Delhi?
§ Mr. H. BAKERThe final decision rests with the Secretary of State in Council.
§ Mr. KINGWill the pledge given by the Under-Secretary of State for India in the course of the Indian Budget that there would be open competition for these buildings be carried out?
§ Mr. H. BAKERIf that pledge was given I am sure it will be carried out.