HC Deb 27 March 1912 vol 36 cc428-9
Mr. BOWERMAN

asked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether, in considering the manner in which the artificial lighting of this House can be improved, he will also consider the desirability of improving the lighting of the Terrace?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN (Lord of the Treasury)

There is no provision for this service in the Estimates. But the First Commissioner will be glad to consider the suggestion when the Estimates for next year are being prepared.

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

asked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether he will give the House an opportunity of discussing the matter before it is decided to replace the lighting of the House by gas with electric light; whether he is aware of the opinion of leading oculists that gas light is less harmful than electric light; and whether gas assists in the proper ventilation of the House?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

In reply to the first paragraph, an opportunity for discussion will arise on the Vote for the Houses of Parliament. The First Commissioner is not aware that leading oculists have expressed any such opinion in regard to lights placed as these will be. The reply to the third paragraph is in the negative. Under the arrangements proposed, the House will be better ventilated than heretofore.

Mr. PETO

Will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that no preparations will be made for altering the lighting until the matter has been fully discussed?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

No, I cannot give such an assurance as that.

Mr. PETO

Does the hon. Gentleman think any useful purpose will be served by discussing it after the preparation has been made?

Mr. MILDMAY

Will the alterations include some alteration in the method by which cold air is pumped up from under the seats?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

I do not think it is contemplated to alter that form of ventilation.

Lord BALCARRES

As the lighting of the House is generally approved, will the hon. Gentleman consider that it should not be altered until he has satisfied himself that the majority of Members and officials of the House is in favour of the proposed change?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

One pane in the ceiling has already for some days been lit in the new fashion. Perhaps the Noble Lord will point it out to me, and point out what objections there are to it.

Mr. CARR-GOMM

When will the Vote for the Houses of Parliament be put down?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

That is not a question which should be addressed to me.