HC Deb 11 February 1913 vol 48 cc715-6
64. Mr. KING

asked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether any important works of alteration or improvement are in contemplation in the buildings of Parliament?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN (Lord of the Treasury)

It is proposed at once to con- struct a temporary staircase to replace the existing one which leads from the Strangers' Lobby to the Terrace. A permanent structure will be erected later in the year. It is also hoped in the autumn to put at the disposal of Members for the use of their secretaries a large room in Westminster Hall. A new Committee Room will also be opened there to replace a room upstairs which in future will be devoted to the use of the Committee Office. A considerable sum is being spent at once in improving the Cloak Room accommodation at the head of the grand Staircase.

Mr. KING

Will the extra accommodation for Members' secretaries include lady secretaries?

Mr. WILKIE

Will the hon. Gentleman make provision for more elevators?

Mr. W. BENN'S

reply was inaudible.