§ 65. Mr. KNIGHTasked the First Commissioner of Works for what reason it is proposed to raise the parapet of the Terrace of the Houses of Parliament and to construct a raised platform adjacent to the parapet?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Lansbury)Following upon the floods of 1928 the London County Council have fixed new standard levels for flood banks. The existing parapet of the Terrace does not comply with the prescribed standard and, in consequence, it has been decided to raise the top of the parapet from 3 feet 6¼ inches to 4 feet 5¾ inches above the Terrace level. As this will affect to some extent the amenity of the Terrace, it has been considered desirable to make a wall walk on the lines of the design at present exhibited in the Tea Room.
§ Mr. KNIGHTWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for his reply, may I 805 ask whether this will have the effect of increasing the protection of the smoking room?
§ Mr. LANSBURYI do not think it will affect the smoking room.
Earl WINTERTONCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the London County Council have any jurisdiction over the Royal Palaces?
§ Mr. LANSBURYThey have no jurisdiction, but common sense would dictate that this is the proper course to adopt.
Earl WINTERTONThe right hon. Gentleman, as a student of common sense, will perhaps explain to this authority that this cannot be a precedent, and that Royal Palaces do not come under the jurisdiction of the London County Council.
§ Mr. LANSBURYI do not think that it is necessary for me to tell the London County Council what I think the London County Council know quite well.