HC Deb 25 April 1956 vol 551 cc1776-7
34. Mr. Russell

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies to what extent air-conditioning is provided in Government offices in tropical and semi-tropical Colonial Territories.

The Minister of State for Colonial Affairs (Mr. John Hare)

Air conditioning in Government offices is still the exception rather than the rule in these territories. Colonial Governments are, however, giving increasing attention to its provision, especially where congestion, bad ventilation or design, excessive noise, or the use to which a building is put makes this particularly desirable. My right hon. Friend will be writing to my hon. Friend with further details.

Mr. Russell

Would my right hon. Friend not agree that most officers in the overseas services operated by this country can work much more efficiently in a reasonable temperature, and will he do everything possible to encourage the provision of air conditioning?

Mr. Hare

I can assure my hon. Friend that we are keeping colonial Governments informed of all up-to-date developments in this respect.

Mr. Stokes

May I ask the Minister if he does not think it disgraceful that at this stage the use of air conditioning in colonial Government offices is the exception rather than the rule? Further, can he assure us that he is entering into arrangements with the Ministry of Works to have a comprehensive plan for installing proper ventilating conditions in all colonial Government offices?

Mr. Hare

I can assure the House that everything is being done to keep colonial Governments up to date on this matter, but air conditioning is expensive not only to install but to run. A great deal can be done in many tropical climates by proper design, siting and ventilation, but we are seeing that those concerned have up-to-date information on the progress of air conditioning.

Mr. Tilney

Would the Minister agree that, although the bulk of the colonial Commonwealth lies in tropical climes, most air conditioning equipment is of foreign manufacture, and would he bring to the attention of British manufacturers the importance of exports in this respect?

Mr. Hare

I certainly will, Sir.