§ 27. Viscount Hinchingbrookeasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Planning whether he will consider introducing into the present Commons Chamber lighting with a higher ultra-violet content, preferably daylight?
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Planning (Mr. Hicks)I assume that the lighting which the hon. Member has in mind is the fluorescent tube lamp. The adaptation of the Chamber to lighting by this method would involve extensive alterations to the present lighting system, including the changing from the present direct current system to alternating current. If it is the wish of the House, I am of course prepared to look further into the question, but I hope that in view of the shortage of labour and materials the proposal will not be pressed at the present time.
§ Viscount HinchingbrookeWould the Minister consider occasionally opening the windows so that at least we could have normal daylight on our proceedings?
§ Mr. MesserDoes the Minister realise that if he does open the windows we shall not get ultra-violet rays?
§ Major MarkhamWould the Minister also look into the question of the lighting of the Library and other parts of the House which are in a state of inspissated gloom?
§ Sir Alfred BeitIs there any reason why we should not have plain glass in the windows?