HC Deb 01 July 1952 vol 503 cc217-8
11. Lieut.-Colonel Hyde

asked the Minister of Works whether he will remove the unauthorised inscriptions which deface the walls at the entrance to Westminster Hall in New Palace Yard.

Mr. Molson

Yes, Sir.

Lieut.-Colonel Hyde

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that these inscriptions are very unsightly and create a very bad impression upon visitors? Is he also aware that one of the inscriptions I noticed today says "Up Spurs," and however desirable it may be that that football team should go to the top of the list, does he not agree that the outside of Westminster Hall is hardly the most appropriate place to express this wish?

Mr. Molson

I agree with the hon. Gentleman. The police do all they can to prevent visitors from inscribing their names and putting up slogans on these walls, and I hope that hon. Members who are receiving any visitors will do what they can to help in this matter. If funds are available, it is hoped to clean the whole of the Arch during the coming year.

Mr. Stokes

What is the nature of these inscriptions? The House should be informed.

Mr. Molson

I think that if the right hon. Gentleman went and looked it would be a useful way of spending his time.

Mr. Stokes

That is no answer. It is not I who want to know; it is other hon. Members of the House. What are the inscriptions?