HC Deb 09 May 1911 vol 25 cc1036-8
Mr. BOOTH

asked the hon. Member for Southampton, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether Westminster Abbey has been guarded at night by a single fireman; and whether, seeing that, owing to the inflammable hoards which have been piled around the venerable structure, a fire might get beyond control in five minutes, he proposes to take any action in the matter?

The TREASURER of the HOUSEHOLD (Mr. Dudley Ward)

Since the commencement of the preparations for the Coronation in Westminster Abbey two firemen have been on duty at night and every precaution has been taken to guard against the risk of fire. All such arrangements have been made with the approval of the head officer of the London Fire Brigade. Provision has been made of a large number of extincteurs: additional hose has been supplied and the most approved system of fire alarms has been established in direct communication with the nearest fire station. The Office of Works is now in consultation with the Chief Officer of the London Fire Brigade as to the desirability of taking further precautions; and any which may be considered necessary by him will be adopted.

Sir HENRY CRAIK

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in the immediate vicinity of the Abbey there are immense stacks of timber, and that close by there are at least three or four smoking chimneys attached to temporary structures. Is it not possible to carry on this work without this very great danger being involved?

Mr. DUDLEY WARD

The Office of Works has been in consultation with the Chief Officer of the Fire Brigade, and it has taken the precautions after consultation with him.

Mr. SWIFT MacNEILL

Could not the number of firemen attached to this duty he increased? It seems to be criminal not to have more than two.

Mr. DUDLEY WARD

The Chief Officer of the Fire Brigade thinks that enough.

Mr. MacNEILL

If Westminster Abbey were burnt down, what then would he think?

Mr. BOOTH

asked if business negotiations took place with a firm who supply fire-proof timber for the supply of the wood to be used in the stagings in and around Westminster Abbey; and whether a change in the plans of the First Commissioner was made at the instigation of the contractor?

Mr. DUDLEY WARD

The reply to the first paragraph is in the affirmative. The reply to the second paragraph is in the negative.

Mr. BOOTH

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that although the firm was willing to supply fire-proof timber, the reason for refusing it was that it would cost more than double the amount of ordinary timber is that the real reason why it has not been used?

Mr. DUDLEY WARD

No, Sir.

Mr. MacNEILL

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this House is not insured, and that Westminster Abbey is, of course, uninsurable?

Mr. DUDLEY WARD

No Government building is insured.