HC Deb 16 March 1927 vol 203 cc1996-8
42. Sir HARRY BRITTAIN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether, following his announcement of the gift of 56,000 Dutch tulip bulbs for Hyde Park, his attention has been called to the fact that there is considerable dissatisfaction among British horticulturists at the acceptance of the gift; and whether he has received any offers from British bulb growers to make a showing of the home-grown article in the royal parks?

Captain HACKING (for The FIRST COMMISSIONER OF WORKS)

The First Commissioner is aware that some criticism has been made of the acceptance of the gift, but, as the effect of such displays in the royal parks is to increase the interest in horticulture generally, he believes that British horticulturists also benefit. There have been occasions in the last few years when similar gifts of home-grown bulbs have been accepted, and the First Commissioner would always welcome any such offers. I would remind my hon. and gallant Friend that no funds were available for the purchase of such a quantity of bulbs, and the refusal of this gift would have deprived the public of the enjoyment of a splendid display of tulips in Hyde Park and St. James's Park.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Will my hon. and gallant Friend do what he can to persuade the Dutch to reciprocate, and have a showing of British bulbs in the parks of Amsterdam?

Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH-COOKE

Would it not be possible to arrange for foreign motor companies to put up advertisements in Hyde Park?

Captain HACKING

There were estimates for motor cars for the various Government Departments in the last Estimates, hilt not for bulbs.

Major OWEN

Would it not have been possible for the First Commissioner, first of all, to have consulted with the British growers before accepting this gift, and to have given them an opportunity, not only of making a display but of encouraging the industry in this country, and giving employment to working men?

Captain HACKING

There is plenty of room in St. James's Park and Hyde Park for other gifts.

Colonel WOODCOCK

Has this gift in Hyde Park anything to do with the "Hands off Britain" propaganda?

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Will any money payments be made for this wonderful advertisement?

Captain HACKING

No money payments whatever, and no conditions are laid down.