HC Deb 06 November 1950 vol 480 cc580-1
26. Mr. John E. Haire

asked the Minister of Works why the structural arrangements made in Westminster Hall for the opening of the new House of Commons were removed so soon after the ceremony.

Mr. Stokes

Part of the material was hired and the contractor has removed it. It is my intention to keep Westminster Hall free of encroachments of any sort.

Mr. Haire

Does my right hon. Friend know—and if he does not, I am glad to tell him—that on all sides of the House the arrangements he made for that occasion were greatly appreciated? Therefore, is not it a pity that they were not seen by a wider public, particularly week-enders?

Mr. Stokes

Without all the people who were there on the ceremonial occasion, I think the place would look very untidy and empty.