HC Deb 19 May 1942 vol 380 cc12-3
24. Earl Winterton

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that there is, during the hours of daylight, an unnecessarily lavish use of electric light in railway stations, hotels, clubs and other large public buildings in London; and whether he will take steps to prevent this by the issue of regulations under the Emergency Powers Act?

28. Major Lyons

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps have been taken to stop unnecessary consumption of light in hotels, restaurants, shops, flats and the like; and whether, in order to effect such reductions, he will issue specially-directed requests by radio or otherwise?

Mr. Dalton

I am aware that there is still extravagance in the lighting of various classes of premises. I have already made an Order, which came into force yesterday prohibiting lighting for purposes of advertisement; and I am now considering, in consultation with representatives of the interests concerned, restriction by Order of interior lighting of public and other premises. The need for economy in lighting has already been the subject of extensive publicity by broadcast appeals and otherwise.

Sir Percy Harris

Could not the right hon. Gentleman improve the lighting of this Chamber by an adjustment of the number of lights?

Sir H. Williams

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the lights in this building consume twice as much electricity as in the old Chamber?

Mr. Dalton

That is not a matter for me.

Sir John Wardlaw-Milne

Is the question of lighting in shops being considered?

Mr. Dalton

Yes, certainly.