HC Deb 26 May 1924 vol 174 c34
80. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether the design of the miniature lighthouses, with blinking green eyes, which have recently been erected in front of Buckingham Palace, was submitted to and approved by the recently established Fine Art Commission; and, if not, will he indicate why it was not so referred; and what was the cost of the lighthouses?

Mr. JOWETT

The refuges in question are temporary and of a purely experimental character. The experiments are being conducted, in consultation with the Commissioner of Police, in the interests of the safety of the public. The Fine Art Commission has not been consulted, but the question of the design and type of permanent refuge is under consideration.

Sir W. DAVISON

What is the reason for these eyes to blink both by day and by night, and is this not a matter that the Fine Art Commission should be consulted about?

Mr. JOWETT

It has no relation to the Fine Art Commission. My first thought is the safety of the public, and the experiment must, therefore, go on.

Mr. J. JONES

Is it in order for an hon. Member to talk about blinking green eyes?