§ Viscount EDNAMasked the hon. Member for the Pollok Division of Glasgow, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether he is aware that much of the damage done to the Alexandra Palace during its War-time occupation by Government Departments, the claim for which amounts to £80,000, is purely wanton and destructive, and could apparently have been avoided by the exercise of proper care and supervision; and whether he will have an inquiry into the circumstances under which this damage was caused with a view to ascertaining individual responsibility?
§ Sir J. GILMOURAn inquiry is being held by the War Office in regard to damage alleged to have occurred during the removal of records from the Alexandra Palace, but a report is not yet available.
§ Viscount EDNAMasked the hon. Member for the Pollok Division of Glasgow, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether be is aware of the great embarrassment which is being experienced by the Alexandra Palace trustees owing to the delay by the Government in the settlement of their claim for damage done during the war-time occupation by Government Departments; that they are unable to make any contracts for repair until they know the total of their award; and, in view of the fact that this work will give considerable relief to unemployed locally, will he take steps to have the claim settled as soon as possible?
§ Sir J. GILMOURNo such representations have been made to the First Commissioners, but I am communicating with the trustees, and I have no doubt that satisfactory arrangements can be made.