§ 22. Mr. KINGasked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether it is intended, in connection with the Estimates for the next financial year, to undertake any alterations or improvements to the buildings of this House; if so, whether he can indicate the nature, extent, and cost of any works proposed; and if he is prepared to accept suggestions from or consult the wishes of hon. Members as to expenditure destined to make more or less comfortable the place in which so many of their days and nights are passed?
§ Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN (Lord of the Treasury)Various proposals are under consideration, but the opinion of hon. Members would be sought before any considerable change were decided on. The First Commissioner is grateful to my hon. Friend for giving me the opportunity of saying that he will welcome suggestions from hon. Members at this time, while the Estimates are in preparation.
§ Mr. KINGCan the hon. Gentleman give us an idea of the amount that is to be spent, as otherwise our suggestions might not be very practicable?
§ Mr. BENNPerhaps the hon. Member would put forward any suggestions that he wishes to make and let us see the cost.
§ Lord BALCARRESCan the hon. Gentleman give us some idea of the changes that are contemplated by the Department?
§ Sir J. LONSDALEIs there any intention of increasing the size of the Chamber so as to admit Members who are often excluded?
§ Mr. SPEAKERI do not think that suggestions should be made now by the hon. Member. They should be made in writing.
§ 23. Mr. LYELLasked the Member for St. George's-in-the-East whether, in view of the contrast between medieval and modern art presented by the latest statue which has been erected in Westminster Hall, he will take steps to have the modern statues removed to some more appropriate place?
§ Mr. BENNThe modern statues are certainly not in keeping with the Hall, and the First Commissioner would be glad to remove them if he could find a suitable place for them.