17. Mr. Vyvyan Adamsasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that members of the Royal Air Force stationed in colleges at Cambridge University are allowed no other illumination than blue lighting in their rooms; that this restriction prevents reading; that in consequence these men have no recreation after dark other than that offered by the cinemas and the streets and that the social consequences are serious; and what action he proposes to alleviate their conditions?
§ Sir K. WoodThe Royal Air Force personnel at Cambridge are billeted in nine colleges. Until the windows of the college rooms had been darkened, ordinary electric lights could not be used in them, but these have now been restored to all the rooms in six of the colleges. The windows of the other three are being darkened as quickly as possible, and all should be completed within 10 days. I regret that while these arrangements were being made the facilities for recreation after dark should have been restricted, but in every college there have always been one or more common rooms with ordinary lighting, and the Cambridge Y.M.C.A. is open to all the men and provides entertainment every night of the week. The University authorities are arranging for the provision of a central club and canteen.
§ Sir K. WoodCertainly.
§ Commander Sir Archibald SouthbyIs my right hon. Friend aware that up to date they have not been allowed fires in their rooms?
§ Mr. DenvilleIs my right hon. Friend aware that blue lighting is much better to read by than any other form of lighting?