§ 56. Major CARVERasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he is aware that the public are debarred from access to the river frontage of His Majesty's Custom House in Lower Thames Street; and whether, as this was a war-time regulation following on a free access from time immemorial to this promenade for city workers, he is prepared to restore this public right?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. In regard to the second part, I much regret that it is not possible to restore public access to the Custom House quay until the temporary building erected on the quay and still in use can be removed.
§ Major CARVERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these unsightly 1309 huts have been there for over 20 years, and could not some other accommodation be provided for the Custom House officials who use the seats and promenade originally provided for the general public?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI am advised that the present pressure of work on the London Custom House officials is such that there is no possibility of moving them at present. They must be accommodated there. As soon as the pressure can be relieved, and if they Can be accommodated elsewhere—it would mean a big undertaking—then, of course, it would revert to previous user.
§ Major CARVERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these seats were placed there by the Metropolitan Public Gardens Association for public enjoyment?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI am fully aware that the continuance of this temporary user by the Custom House officials does conflict with the original intention.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENDo you charge the Custom House officials 2d. a seat?