HC Deb 24 February 1936 vol 309 cc28-9
44. Mr. H. G. WILLIAMS

asked the First Commissioner of Works what percentage of the electric lamps in the Houses of Parliament are of the gas filled type; and how long will it be before this type entirely supersedes the less efficient types still largely in use?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

About 75 per cent. of the electric lamps in the Houses of Parliament are of the gas-filled type: I am not in a position to forecast the date by which this type only will be in general use, as substitution of gas-filled lamps where available takes place as the old types wear out.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Would it not be economic to replace all the old-fashioned lamps forthwith by new ones which only use half the energy; and is it not the case that in this respect at present this House is worse equipped than many private houses in the country?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

AS I have said, 75 per cent. have already been converted and I am converting all the time. There are still some of the old lamps not actually in the House but in places where bright illumination is not needed. I have no doubt that those remaining old lamps will be replaced in due course.