HC Deb 05 July 1916 vol 83 cc1519-20
39. Captain BATHURST

asked the First Commissioner of Works if, in view of the high and increasing cost of meat, he will consider the desirability, while abandoning flower beds in the Royal parks, of raising therein for the instruction of and an example to those who have garden plots adjoining their houses, whether in London or elsewhere, such vegetables as are deemed by experts to be an effective substitute for meat?

Mr. HARCOURT

This question has been fully considered, but I regret to say that the objections to the proposal are so serious that I have not felt it advisable to give effect to it.

Mr. CATHCART WASON

Will my right hon. Friend take into consideration the fact that the flowers in the Royal parks are a great joy and comfort to thousands of our wounded soldiers?

Mr. HARCOURT

I am not prepared to accede to the request.