§ 31. Mr. ORMSBY-GOREasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that there is now a vacancy for the headship of the Archeological Department in Ceylon; whether it is intended to secure for this post someone experienced in the preservation and scientific restoration of ancient buildings; whether his attention has been called to the neglect into which some of the most important historical monuments in Ceylon have fallen during recent years; and whether he will make representations to the Government of Ceylon to the effect that more energetic measures are required to arrest further decay?
§ Dr. SHIELSThere is a vacancy in the post of Archæological Commissioner in Ceylon, and steps are being taken to secure for the appointment a suitably 389 qualified candidate. My attention has been drawn to comments in the Press on the condition of the ancient monuments in Ceylon. The Ceylon Government will be asked for a report in the matter.