§ MR. HORNIMAN (Chelsea)To ask the First Commissioner of Works what is the estimated life of buildings in reinforced or ferro-concrete, such as is now being erected for the post office in King Edward VII. Street, E.C.; whether he has had any report of how this kind of construction resists the effects of fire; and has he seen any reports or publications 1515 respecting the buildings so constructed after undergoing the test of fire at San Francisco.
(Answered by Mr. Harcourt.) Buildings of ferro-concrete are believed by experts to be at least as durable as those of brick or stone. I have received a very valuable report confirming this opinion on this subject from the Joint Committee of the Royal Institute of British Architects which is available to the hon. Member at the cost of 1s. The experience of San Francisco, though interesting, is not of conclusive value, as the buildings there were subjected to earthquake fracture before the occurrence of fire.