§ 82. Mr. KINGasked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, if he will state when it is proposed to commence the refacing with stone of Buckingham Palace and how long the work will be in hand; whether the work will be undertaken by contract or direct labour under the Office of Works; and whether any new architectural features will be introduced or the present elevation left practically unchanged.
§ Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN (Lord of the Treasury)It is proposed to begin the re-facing of Buckingham Palace at the beginning of August next, and to complete the work in three months. The work will be done by contract. I am having a sketch elevation placed in the Tea Boom to-day in order that hon. Members may see exactly what is intended.