§ 43. Mr. PIKEasked the First Commissioner of Works whose authority the painting presented by the District Electric Railways was placed upon the wall of St. Stephen's porch; and by whom the work was financed?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)The painting in question was erected with my approval, after consultation with the Speaker and the Lord Great Chamberlain. The plan was generously presented by the Underground Railways, and is in replacement of a plan which, for many years, had been placed on an easel in St. Stephen's entrance for the guidance of the public on the days on which they are admitted.
§ Mr. PIKEIs the acceptance of an advertisement of this description not a departure from precedent; and, if it is the policy of the Government to pursue the acceptance of such paintings, will the right hon. Gentleman further consider the advisability of accepting such as will advertise, not only the amenities, but the products of our depressed industrial areas?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI do not think there are many places left for pictures in the Palace of Westminster. Certainly, this plan is primarily of great archaeological interest, rather than an advertisement for the Underground Railways, and I think it will be appreciated by the public. As in these times it is really impossible to ask the Treasury to pay for that kind of thing, I wish to express my appreciation of the generosity of the Underground Railways in presenting it.
§ Sir A. M. SAMUELIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these interesting maps will soon be destroyed, as the public are already rubbing their fingers on them in examining them?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI hope that shortly they will be covered with an effective varnish.
Colonel CROOKSHANKDoes the hon. Gentleman not think it would be advisable to have it glazed, as I notice that a "Please do not touch" notice has been placed there?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI will consider that suggestion.