§ 77. Mr. HIGHAMasked the First Commissioner of Works if it is intended to house a French Commission in one of the commandeered buildings in Kingsway; if it is so intended, will he explain the reason why this Commission should be housed in premises held on a long lease by a British firm; and under what part of the Defence of the Realm Act he is permitted to commandeer business premises for a civil Commission from another country?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Sir Alfred Mond)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, this Commission, which is mainly naval and military, forms part of the Commission Internationale de Ravitaillement, now being concentrated in various requisitioned buildings in Kingsway. As regards the last part, the premises in question were requisitioned by the War Office under the general powers of the Defenc of the Realm Act.
§ Sir NORTON GRIFFITHSWith a view to meeting the general convenience of the public, would the First Commissioner of Works consider the advisability of erecting huts in such places as the site in Hyde Park behind the Magazine, which was occupied until recently by the Royal Engineers for experimental purposes? That is a large vacant site not accessible to the public.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member is offering suggestions, not asking questions.