HC Deb 16 March 1916 vol 80 cc2241-2
21. Sir HENRY CRAIK

asked the First Commissioner of Works Whether he has received the resolution of the Statutory Commission on Pensions regarding the provision of office accommodation in the premises of the London Museum; whether he is prepared to put such accommodation at the disposal of the Committee and, if not, what are the reasons against this; and what alternative accommodation can be provided in such a central situation as is necessary to enable the members of the Committee, without undue interference with other duties, to give regular attendance at the frequent sittings of the Committee?

The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Harcourt)

The Foreign Trade Department occupies all the available accommodation at the London Museum. The remainder of Lancaster House is reserved for other purposes, but if more space could be spared it would be required by the Foreign Trade Department. The Pensions Committee cannot therefore be housed there. They have, however, been offered free accommodation in the Tate Gallery, in the Wallace Collection and in the British Museum. All these they have declined. Private premises in Kingsway, Wellington Street, the Haymarket and Buckingham Gate (the latter at a rent of about £480 a year) have since been offered but have not been accepted. Efforts are still being made to discover some building which will meet their views.

Sir H. CRAIK

Will the right hon. Gentleman say what are the purposes for which the other premises are required?

Mr. HARCOURT

A part of the ground and the first floor has been reserved for hospitality by His Majesty's Government to distinguished visitors from our Allies and Dominions. The importance of this service becomes more urgent as the War approaches and attains its termination. The hon. Member will probably agree that the graces of hospitality depend largely upon the amenity of their setting.