§ 35. Captain CARR-GOMMasked the First Commissioner of Works whether any, and, if so, what, steps have been taken towards the commandeering of the Adelphi estate for the purposes of the Air Board; whether he is aware of the dis- 271 satisfaction felt at the threatened loss of this property, which is full of priceless relics of the work of the Adam Brothers; and whether, in view of this, the Committee can make a fuller inquiry into the matter?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Sir Alfred Mond)There is no intention, and never has been, to commandeer the Adelphi estate for the purposes of the Air Board or any other purpose. Certain premises forming part of the Adelphi estate, and situated in Adam Street, have been requisitioned for the purposes of additional office accommodation urgently required for the Air Ministry. Dissatisfaction is always felt at any proposal to requisition, but the needs of the fighting Departments of the nation must be the first consideration of the Committee. The property in question contains very little work by the Adam Brothers, and any such work will be adequately protected, as in the case of all decorations in requisitioned buildings. The Committee caused the fullest inquiries to be made before arriving at a decision on this matter, and it is not proposed to reopen the question.
§ Colonel YATEDoes the part commandeered include the premises of the Society of Arts?
§ Sir A. MONDNo; it does not.
§ 36. Captain CARR-GOMMasked whether there are now any applications for increased office accommodation awaiting the sanction of the Cabinet Committee on office accommodation; and, if so, how many there are, and which Government offices are making these applications?
§ Sir A. MONDYes, Sir, six; three from the War Office, and one each from the Ministry of Food, Ministry of Shipping, and Allied Maritime Transport Council.
§ Mr. WHITEHOUSEIs it true that the Department which deals with the bestowal of honours upon civilians has applied for enlarged office accommodation?