§ 19. Mr. MORGAN JONESasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he is aware of the conditions of discomfort under which Official Reporters are called upon to do their work in their room on the Upper Committee Room floor; and whether he will make some other arrangements so that they may be able to work under more comfortable and healthier conditions?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I fear that many people have to suffer inconvenience from the exigencies of the repair to the stonework. I am, however, considering whether some small improvements cannot be effected.
§ Mr. JONESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the actual conditions under which the Official Reporters are working at present; that 14 men are accommodated in one small room, the window 1637 of which has been taken out and replaced by a thin canvas screen; and are they expected to perform their duties under these disgraceful conditions?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI shall be very ready to hear representations from the staff concerned regarding this matter, but, as the hon. Gentleman will realise, the work on the stonework of the building is causing me the very greatest difficulties in finding accommodation for the staffs of the House and for the many other people who are engaged in the House from day to day.
§ Mr. JONESHas the right hon. Gentleman considered whether the room now allotted to the "Times" files, on the Upper Committee corridor, ought not to be permanently allotted to the Official Reporters and the files removed to some of the other rooms which are unoccupied?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThat is a new suggestion. I shall have to consider that.
§ Mr. C. WILLIAMSWill the right hon. Gentleman consider giving them the Map Room?