HC Deb 13 February 1913 vol 48 c1172
42. Mr. JAMES HOGGE

asked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether the competition for the designs for the proposed new Government offices in Edinburgh will be unrestricted; and, if not, what restrictions are proposed?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN (Lord of the Treasury)

The conditions of the competition have not yet been settled, but the present intention is that it shall be an open one.

Mr. J. HOGGE

Before the terms are settled, can we have an opportunity of knowing what they are?

Mr. W. BENN

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put a question on the Paper a little later on, when we have had an opportunity of consulting Sir Robert Lorimer further.

MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINE

Is not this really a question for the Committee who have been entrusted with the matter?

Mr. W. BENN

I do not think it is necessarily a matter for the Committee to decide; but the Commissioners will be glad to have the benefit of the opinion of Members of the Committee?

MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINE

Would it not be better for the Committee to resign?

43. Mr. JAMES HOGGE

asked whether it is proposed to adhere to the present site for the proposed new Government buildings in Edinburgh?

Mr. W. BENN

The answer is in the affirmative.