HC Deb 30 November 1931 vol 260 cc763-4
67. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he will arrange for the better ventilation of the Division Lobby when used by supporters of the Government at the time of the taking of a Division, seeing that some 400 Members are now often confined for nearly 20 minutes in the small space of the Division Lobby, with no open windows and little or no ventilation?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

I fear that little improvement in the ventilation of the Division Lobbies is possible, except at considerable expense. In the summer months the windows can be left open, but in winter this practice would unduly lower the temperature for those hon. Members using the Lobbies for writing letters between Divisions. I understand that the average time taken for Members to pass through the Government Lobby during the last fortnight is about 14 minutes.

Sir W. DAVISON

Would it be possible for one of the Whips to turn on the electric fan prior to a Division?

Mr. COCKS

Would nut all the trouble vanish if the Free Trade supporters of the Government joined us?

Mr. MAXTON

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that there are decent fires in the other Lobby?

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