§ Sir R. THOMASasked the Under Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether he is aware of frequent complaints that the statutory group, "Burghers of Calais," by Auguste Rodin, in the Victoria Tower Gardens, is placed on so high a pedestal that it cannot be seen and studied to advantage; and whether, in view of the beauty and educational value of this work of art, he will have the pedestal lowered?
§ Captain HACKING (for The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS)The height and design of the base of the statuary group in question were fixed after prolonged consideration in full accordance with the views and wishes of Monsieur Rodin, and actually approved by him. My right hon. Friend, therefore, does not see his way to adopt the suggestion made, which, apart from artistic considerations, would involve substantial expenditure from public funds.