asked the First Commissioner of "Works, What is the object of the iron-girded excrescence that has lately appeared on the roof of the National Gallery, and whether it is intended to be a permanent structure; and, if so, how it is proposed to conceal it?

, in reply, explained that the "excrescence" formed the dome of the Central Octagon Hall of the Galleries now in course of erection, and alluded to by the hon. Member for South Hampshire (Mr. Cowper-Temple) on Tuesday, and that it was therefore intended to be permanent. As to how long this dome should be visible from the street he must refer his hon. Friend to his two right hon. Friends the Prime Minister and the Chancellor of the Exchequer, to ascertain what sum of money they were willing to allow him to re-model the present façade of the National Gallery and hide the "iron-girded excrescence" from view.