HC Deb 03 May 1928 vol 216 cc1902-3
63. Mr. E. BROWN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, when it is intended to remove the unsightly ladders and screens from Westminster Hall?

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

The screens in question were used for the completion of the paintings in St. Stephen's Hall. They are now no longer required and will be removed within the next few days.

Mr. BROWN

Why is it, that although this work was completed nearly three months ago, the screens are still there; and is the hon. Gentleman aware that visitors to Westminster Hall are constantly inquiring what secrets the Government have hidden behind those screens?

Sir V. HENDERSON

The hon. Member is not accurate in his information. It was found necessary to make further alterations to one of the pictures as late as the Easter holidays, and it is only within the last two or three days that I have been assured that no further alterations will be required.