§ Mr. SCURRasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the statement of the Chairman of the Theatres and Music Hall Committee of the London County Council that the structure of Covent Garden Opera House 2565W is not up to the standard of structure necessary for public safety; whether he is aware that the exits are constructed on the principle of combined exits, a system which is dangerous in case of fire or panic; and whether, in view of the importance of the matter for the safety of the public, he will compel the theatre authorities to carry out all necessary alterations?
§ Sir W. J0YNS0N-H1CKSThe Lord Chamberlain has been, and is still, in communication with the Covent Garden Opera Syndicate with regard to certain structural arrangements in this theatre, which in the opinion of the London County Council are considered defective. It is understood that estimates of the suggested alterations are at present engaging the attention of the leaseholders from whom an early report is expected. Meanwhile, the theatre has been let for some months for use as a ballroom, during which time the special precautions held to be necessary when the building is need as a theatre are not applicable.