9. Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)asked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East, as representing the Insurance Commissioners, if complaints have been made as to the unhealthy conditions obtaining at the Maida Vale offices of the National Health Insurance Commission; if part of the building, known as the bandstand, was at one time used for the accommodation of male clerks; if, in consequence of their refusing to work there owing to the excessive heat and other reasons, they 808 were removed elsewhere, a number of girl clerks taking their place in this part of the building; if the use of the bandstand has now had to be permanently discontinued; if a recent inspection of the building was made by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster to ascertain the conditions obtaining; and how long it is proposed to continue the use of these premises for the present purpose?
Mr. BENNRepresentations have been received in regard to such matters as additional windows and ventilating fans; and improvements have been made in this respect from time to time. The insinuation contained in the second part of the question is entirely baseless, and the health record of the staff as a whole compares not unfavourably with that of other departments. There is no present question of discontinuing the use of the premises.
Mr. F. HALLMay I ask the hon. Gentleman if the inspection was not made previous to the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster going down, and if temporary improvements were not made, and whether he will take steps to see that the temporary improvements are made permanent?
Mr. BENNI cannot answer the first part, but every care will be taken to make this building as safe as possible.