§ 17. Mr. KINGasked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East whether he can now make a statement as to the date when the new staircase and lift leading from the Dining Room Lobby to the Terrace will be completed, and whether the staircase when finished will have any decorative or novel features?
Mr. BENNThe decoration of the new staircase has largely been carried out with the old wood carving which had been in store. The central panel is at present occupied by tapestry lent for the remainder of this Session by the Victoria and Albert Museum. It is intended ultimately to fill this panel with a picture by Mr. Seymour Lucas, representing the 1464 flight of the five Members. The First Commissioner feels certain that the House will learn with gratitude that a generous promise to present this painting has been made by the hon. Member for West Wolverhampton. It is hoped that the staircase itself will be open for use on Wednesday. The lift will be constructed during the recess.