§ 49. Mr. ERSKINEasked the hon. Member for the Pollok Division of Glasgow, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, if he can state the intention of the First Commissioner in regard to the proposed bathing screen in Hyde Park?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI am glad to make a statement on a subject which has given rise to misapprehension. In view of grave complaints from the public and the police, it is proposed to raise an easy and almost imperceptible gradient from below the Rotten Row footpath towards the Serpentine, which will screen off the ground, extending to within 50 yards of the footpath, now occupied by bathers when dressing and undressing. This will not mask the view of the lake, nor is it proposed to erect a tumulus or mound; and, in point of fact, the level of the existing turf will not be raised more than 33 inches at its maximum. The cost, estimated at £1,500, will be defrayed from sums already voted for park improvements to be executed by unemployed labourers, who are well suited for this type of work and who will be recruited through the Labour Exchanges.