HC Deb 18 February 1943 vol 386 cc1936-7
48 and 49. Commander King-Hall

asked the Prime Minister (1) whether he will give immediate consideration to the rebuilding of the House of Commons; whether he will move for the appointment of a Select Committee for the purpose; and whether he is aware of the psychological importance of taking this action now as a symbol of the indestructible character of Parliamentary institutions;

(2) whether the opportunity will be taken, when the House of Commons is being rebuilt, to establish conveniently close to the House adequate secretarial accommodation for the use of Members?

Mr. Attlee

Preliminary information has been collected by the Ministry of Works with a view to the preparation of plans and the starting of the work when times are opportune. As has already been announced, the House will be consulted before final plans are made, and all suggestions made by hon. Members will be borne in mind.

Commander King-Hall

Can my right hon. Friend give any indication as to when he thinks the time will be opportune?

Mr. Attlee

I am afraid I cannot do so at the moment.

Earl Winterton

Does my right hon. Friend's answer mean that a White Paper will be published giving the Government's provisional views and that then there will be a Debate in the House?

Mr. Attlee

I will consider that suggestion. No decision has been taken to that effect.

Mr. George Griffiths

Will my right hon. Friend see that houses are built for the miners to live in before we start on this job?

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