HC Deb 23 March 1938 vol 333 cc1202-3
60. Lieut.-Colonel Heneage

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether his attention has been drawn to the overcrowding in the Members' secretaries' rooms between the hours of 3 and 7, and also in the small room provided for typing; and whether he can arrange for increased accommodation?

The First Commissioner of Works (Sir Philip Sassoon)

Yes, Sir; but all available space in the building is fully occupied, and I regret that it is not practicable to allocate additional space for Members' secretaries and for typing.

Lieut.-Colonel Heneage

Is the right hon. Gentleman convinced that the space allotted for this purpose in the House would be considered sufficient in the case of a private firm?

Mr. Maxton

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that not more than 12 Members can have accommodation for themselves and their secretaries at any given time?

Sir P. Sassoon

The hon. Member knows that the accommodation available is fully occupied. If he can tell me how I can provide more accommodation I shall be only too glad.

Mr. Maxton

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that in providing accommodation for one-fiftieth of the Members of this House he is carrying out his duties in a reasonable way.

Viscountess Astor

May I suggest that the right hon. Gentleman should take away the public bar and turn it into a secretaries' room?