§ [SECOND READING.]
§ Order of the Day for the Second Reading read.
§ THE EARL OF DUNMOREMy Lords, this Bill, the object of which is set out in the Memorandum, has been promoted by the Corporation of London on behalf of the local authorities whose names are scheduled, and also on behalf of other local authorities who may hereafter wish to contribute with the consent of the Local Government Board. The history and description of the Crystal Palace and grounds are well known to your Lordships. 1675 The proprietors of this concern have been for some time past desirous of disposing of the property. On May 1 last the purchase of the Crystal Palace with a considerable amount of ground round it was completed by the Earl of Plymouth, who wished to save it for the use of the nation. The whole of the cost—£230,000—has been raised either by private subscription or has been guaranteed by certain local authorities; but those local authorities have to obtain statutory sanction before they may contribute the money which they have already voted. I do not think that this House will refuse to these local authorities a power which I may say has already been given to the London County Council. The London County Council in the General Powers Bill, the Third Reading of which took place in this House this afternoon, is obtaining power to contribute £20,000. No objection has been raised to that provision in either House of Parliament, and therefore I think I may say that the principle of contribution out of the rates has already been sanctioned by Parliament. This Bill, which was introduced in the House of Commons originally as a private Member's Bill, was taken over by the Government. It has gone through all stages in the other House and has been supported by many Members on both sides of that House representing the local authorities who are contributing. This Bill is only an enabling Bill. The scheme for the maintenance and the management of the Crystal Palace and grounds will be submitted to Parliament in the next session. As there is so much business on the Paper I do not think I need detain your Lordships by entering into further detail as to this Bill, which is really not contentious. I will only add that I think a great debt of gratitude is due to the noble Earl, Lord Plymouth, who initiated this project, and to the Lord Mayor of London and to all those who have done so much to further this scheme, a scheme which I trust will do a great deal to promote the education and happiness of the community.
§ Moved, That the Bill be now read 2a.—(The Earl of Dunmore.)
§ On Question, Bill read 2a, and committed to a Committee of the Whole House To-morrow, and Standing Order No. XXXIX to be considered in order to its being dispensed with.