HC Deb 16 February 1927 vol 202 cc901-2
52. Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether there is any standard of temperature fixed for rooms used by clerical workers in Government offices; and whether such rooms are provided with thermometers or what steps are taken to ensure that the temperature maintained is adequate for the health of the workers?

Captain HACKING

The varying nature of the accommodation occupied by Government clerical staffs and the variable climatic conditions are such that it is impracticable to fix a rigid standard of temperature; thermometers are not supplied; heating apparatus or fires which are considered to be sufficient to maintain a temperature adequate for the health of the occupants are provided, and generally prove to be reasonably adequate.

Mr. MACKINDER

Is it not a fact that the Government insist that factories and workshops should be adequately heated, and if so, why not Government offices?

Captain HACKING

Because they are not included in the Workshops Act.