HC Deb 26 March 1930 vol 237 cc418-9
51. Dr. FORGAN

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether be is aware that the existing system of ventilation in the Chamber has been declared by experts to be definitely prejudicial to health and that repeated recommendations of committees on the subject have been ignored; and whether, in view thereof, he will undertake to have the necessary alterations commenced not later than August next?

The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Lansbury)

The answer is in the negative.

Dr. FORGAN

Are we to understand that there is a negative reply to each part of the question, or only to the latter part?

Mr. LANSBURY

It has never been definitely decided that this building is unhealthy. As I have stated on previous occasions, there have been recommendations for some improvement, but these have been postponed until the financial position of the Government or the country is eased.

Dr. FORGAN

Is it not a fact that the recent report declares that the conditions are definitely prejudicial to health? In view of that fact, is the necessary alteration to be indefinitely postponed, seeing that it has a bearing upon the health of Members of this House?

Mr. LANSBURY

I must disagree with my hon. Friend about "definitely." Experts have thoroughly disagreed, as all experts do, on subjects of this kind. We cannot get the money to do the work.

Mr. HARRIS

In spite of the very heavy expenditure involved in ventilating this place, has it ever been suggested that the atmosphere is really good?

Mr. LANSBURY

It has never been suggested that it is very bad; it is middling.

Major COLFOX

Is it not a fact that Members of Parliament, when they get over the perils of a General Election, often live to an advanced old age?