§ 62. Mr. STRAUSSasked the First Commissioner of Works when the present lighting system was installed in the Houses of Parliament; and whether he will investigate its adequacy on practical and aesthetic grounds?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Lansbury)Electric lighting was first installed in part of the Houses of Parliament in 1883 and has since been extended on various occasions, and in particular to the Chamber of the House of Commons in 1912. Many of the fittings now used in the House were originally gas fittings, but are considered to be efficient, and the heavy expenditure on replacing them would seem to be unnecessary. If, however, my hon. Friend has in mind any place where he considers that the lighting should be improved, I shall be happy to consider the matter.
§ Mr. DAYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is absolutely impossible for messengers to find Members on the Terrace of the House?
Earl WINTERTONWill the right hon. Gentleman give sympathetic consideration to the fact that in some parts of the House the electric lights are unshaded, and that it is held by medical advisers that unshaded electric lights such as are used in most public buildings are inimical to the eyes?
§ Mr. LANSBURYI shall be very glad to give that matter consideration.
§ Mr. BEAUMONTWill the right hon. Gentleman investigate the question of the natural, as well as the artificial light in the House?