HC Deb 14 November 1927 vol 210 c630
66. Colonel DAY

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, the amount his Department received for the six months ended to the last convenient date from the proceeds of the hiring of seats in parks and open spaces under his control?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Lieut.-Colonel Sir Vivian Henderson)

During the six months ended 30th September, the sum of £4,262 was received in respect of the percentage of the gross receipts, in addition to rent at the rate of £5,000 per annum.

Colonel DAY

Is it not the fact that last year £11,000 was paid for the hire of these seats by the contractor, and the Government refused that amount this year, deciding that they wanted more money; and that now they have lost on the percentage basis?

Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

Has the Office of Works considered the desirability of reducing the charge for these seats to the old figure of Id., having regard to the large number of seats unoccupied now that 2d. is being charged, and also having regard to the figures just given to the House?

Sir V. HENDERSON

I must ask for notice of both questions.