§ 22. Mr. Thorpeasked the Minister of Works the total cost of restoring the statues in St. Stephen's Hall; and what expert advice was taken in this matter.
§ Lord John HopeRestoration cost £320 and was carried out under the direction of my architects, who are well qualified to deal with this type of work.
§ Mr. ThorpeHas the Minister closely inspected these allegedly restored statues? Is he aware, for example, that on the statue of John Selden fingers have been added but that so much cement has been left in the palm of this gentleman's hand that he looks as if he has a bad case of eczema, and that on the statue of William Pitt the younger a piece of marble has been affixed to the end of his nose which gives the impression of a permanent drip? Would it not be possible to ask the architects to look at them again and do their job properly?
§ Lord John HopeI will do my best. I will make a personal inspection of the anatomy of these distinguished gentlemen. I hope, however, that the hon. Member will at least agree that the removal of the coffee staining which was responsible for the former brown colour has at least been a great improvement.
§ Mr. ThorpeMay I offer to accompany the right hon. Gentleman on his inspection?
§ Mr. DugdaleWhile not commenting on the condition of the statues of these eminent gentlemen, may I ask the Minister to have regard to the fact that the light in St. Stephen's Hall is both too high and too bright for the admirable proportions of that building? Will he take steps to alter it?
§ Lord John HopeThat is another question, but I will take note of it.