§ 76. Mr. ATKEYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the only suitable building for the holding of an international motor exhibition is Olympia; that this building is still in partial use as Army clothing stores; that, unless vacant possession by October next can be guaranteed immediately, it will not be possible for the motor industry to organise an exhibition until 1920; that contracts are pending for work in connection with motor exhibitions for which a lease of Olympia has been granted for October and November next, involving a sum of about £100,000, which would largely be expended in labour, and consequently would provide a considerable amount of employment at an early date; that the cycle and motor cycle industry is equally dependent for its exhibition this year upon possession of Olympia being so immediately guaranteed; and will he take steps which will secure Olympia for these exhibitions during November of this year?
Captain GUEST (Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury)Olympia is at present used as a store by the Royal Army Clothing Department. The stores are, however, being rapidly removed, and the building will be surrendered to the owners at an early date and in ample time for the exhibitions mentioned to take place.