§ 72. Mr. W. GRAHAMasked the First Commissioner of Works whether his attention has been called to the fact that the Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh, were, during the War, open to the public during the summer season until 10 p.m.; whether, although there is now an adequate staff, the public are turned out of the gardens between 8 and 9 p.m., and it has been announced that in no case will they be open later than 9 p.m.; and whether, in view of the importance of Edinburgh as a summer resort, he will take steps to restore the former facilities for the benefit of residents and visitors?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Sir Alfred Mond)Experience showed that the gardens were very little used between 9 and 10 p.m., and I am advised that the present arrangement gives general satisfaction. Any extension of hours would involve additional expenditure which in my opinion would not be justifiable.