HC Deb 12 March 1919 vol 113 c1315W
Mr. DEVLIN

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the attempt being made at present by the Board of Works to seize for temporary use of the Board of Trade the Co-operative Buildings, Frederick Street, Belfast, containing the large co-operative hall and the minor halls; whether he is aware that for some years past educational classes of different kinds have been carried on in these buildings for the benefit of the working classes; whether, in view of the proposed reconstruction schemes, classes for the education of the working classes are more necessary now than ever; and whether, under the circumstances, arrangements will be made to provide suitable buildings elsewhere for the use of the Board of Trade?

Mr. WARDLE

It has not been necessary to take over the Co-operative Buildings, Frederick Street, Belfast, up to the present time, and unless unemployment increases in Belfast, it is probable that it will not be necessary to do so in the future. In all cases where it is necessary to obtain accommodation, every effort is made to secure premises which will not interfere with the education of the working classes.