HC Deb 06 July 1931 vol 254 cc1716-7
61. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the First Commissioner of Works under what circumstances, and for what purpose, a considerable portion of Palace Yard is being enclosed by hoardings; what is the cost involved; and when it is expected that the hoardings will be removed?

The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Lansbury)

The enclosure to which the hon. Member refers has been made in order to provide a place for the delivery of stone and materials for the repair of the stonework of the Sergeant-at- Arms' residence and the Clock Tower. The estimated cost of the enclosure is £200. The enclosure will be required for at least two years.

Sir W. DAVISON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a considerably larger area would be available at the Victoria Gardens end of the building if some of the old stones which had been picked off the Palace were removed; and would it not be much more suitable and cause much less inconvenience if the stone-yard could have been there instead of in Palace Yard?

Mr. LANSBURY

The hon. Baronet will realise that in these days of economy you have to get the work done as economically as possible, and therefore we require the work necessary to be done for the repair of the tower and of the Sergeant-at-Arms' and Speaker's houses to be dealt with as close to the area as possible.

Sir BERTRAM FALLE

Will the right hon. Gentleman say under what authority he has built this construction?

Sir W. BRASS

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider an alternative place for the motor cars?

Mr. LANSBURY

If anyone can suggest an alternative, I expect that those in authority will be willing to consider it. There is an alternative which, on the spur of the moment, I can think of, and that is Old Palace Yard.

Mr. BRACKEN

Did the right hon. Gentleman consult with the Lord Chamberlain before he erected this eye-sore?

Mr. LANSBURY

We always consult those whom we ought to consult.

Sir B. FALLE

Will the right hon. Gentleman say under what authority he has acted?

Mr. LANSBURY

Oh, my own.

Sir B. FALLE

Who gave the right hon. Gentleman authority? [Interruption.]