§ 69. Colonel WEDGWOODasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he will consider favourably a proposal to erect within the precincts of the House a tablet or other memorial to Charles Bradlaugh, formerly Member for Northampton, the centenary of whose birth is being celebrated this year?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)I could not entertain the idea of a memorial to Bradlaugh involving any charge upon public funds. If any person or persons are desirous of presenting such a memorial, it would be necessary to follow the recognised procedure as regards statues, busts, or other memorials in the House of Commons—a copy of which I am sending to my right hon. Friend.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWould my right hon. Friend consider receiving a deputation on this matter from those who are interested in broadening the bounds of freedom in this House?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREHonestly I do not see the point in receiving a deputation, as it is very strictly laid down that we can only put up memorials at the public expense as the result of a, specific Vote of the House, and, in regard to the presentation of a memorial, there is recognised procedure, in which the Whips of each party are consulted, then the Royal Fine Art Commission, and then the Lord Great Chamberlain and myself.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODAnd the Bishops?
§ Mr. MAXTONCan any Member of the House receive a copy of those rules and regulations?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GORECertainly.
§ Mr. MAXTONMay I have one?