§ 57 and 58. Mr. REMERasked the First Commissioner of Works (1) whether, in the interests of more economical organisation, he can arrange to house more closely the office staff at the Office of Works, Storey's Gate;
(2) whether he will invite a committee of three Members of the House of Commons to investigate on the spot the accommodation and distribution of the staff at the Office of Works, Storey's Gate, with a view to making greater use of the space available?
§ Mr. LANSBURYI am satisfied from personal inspection of the accommodation occupied by this Department that there is no justification for reducing the standard by a closer distribution of the staff, and that no useful purpose would be served 16 in appointing a committee to investigate this question as suggested by the hon. Member.
§ Mr. REMERHas the light hon. Gentleman made any inquiry with a view to comparing the housing of this office staff with other Government Departments, and, if he has not done so, will he do so at the earliest possible moment?
§ Mr. LANSBURYYes, I am very well acquainted with the facts and I have taken a good deal of trouble to ascertain them.
§ Mr. REMERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is about half the staffing of this Department: compared with other Departments, and will he take the earliest steps to see that this matter is put in order?
§ Mr. LANSBURYI think the hon. Member is completely misinformed.