§ 55. Mr. HINDSasked whether the dwelling-house and grounds adjoining Eltham Palace belong to the Crown; if so, what is the rent derived from the same; the date and duration of the lease; whether any portion of the palace now being restored at public expense, or any easement from same, are comprised in such lettings; if any arrangements are in contemplation for admitting the general public to view the palace; whether he will consider the desirability of terminating at the earliest opportunity the present letting of the house so as the better to enable this historic palace, and the moat and grounds surrounding it, to be enjoyed by the nation who are bearing the expense of the restoration; and what is the estimated total expenditure now being incurred in the restoration?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThe house and grounds adjoining the Eltham Palace Hall belong to the Crown, and with the hall itself are comprised in a lease granted in 1862 for a term that will expire at Michaelmas, 1919, at £140 per annum. The lessee is under obligation to allow the public to have access to the hall at reasonable times and he is not responsible for repairs to the hall. The future disposition of the premises on the expiration of the present lease will be considered in due course. The estimated total expenditure now being incurred in the restoration of the hall, the moat walls, and the approach bridge over the moat is about £6,000.