HC Deb 22 August 1945 vol 413 cc616-7
71. Mr. Driberg

asked the Minister of Works if, in view of the increasing public interest in the proceedings of Parliament and the inadequate gallery accommodation in the present Chamber, he will consider the erection, during the coming Recess, of a temporary gallery, capable of holding 150 or 200 persons, at the south end of the Chamber.

Mr. Tomlinson

While I fully sympathise with my hon. Friend's anxiety to afford facilities for a larger number of representatives of the Press and of the public to hear our deliberations, I am afraid that the erection of a temporary gallery is a major structural operation which is not feasible under present conditions and certainly could not be carried out during the Recess.

Mr. Driberg

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that we shall probably have to occupy this Chamber for the whole lifetime of the present Parliament, and that the demand for tickets everyday from Members of Parliament for their constituents greatly exceeds the supply, and will he reconsider his statement that the provision of a temporary gallery need be a major structural alteration?

Mr. Tomlinson

It is obvious that the erection of a temporary gallery would necessitate a major structural alteration if it is to be safe. I am certainly prepared to keep in mind what is suggested, but I have a feeling that perhaps the demand will fall off as time goes on.

Earl Winterton

Is it not a fact, in any case, that the right hon. Gentleman and the Government have no authority to do this without the permisison of that very important official, the Lord Great Chamberlain?

Mr. Tomlinson

I hope I did not give the House the impression that I have the authority. If any structural alterations were made, it would have to be after consultation.

Mr. Driberg

Why not take it?

Miss Rathbone

Why not give some relief by making more economical use of the existing seats and, where the galleries are not filled by their usual occupants, filling them up with the public meantime?

Mr. Maxton

Was the Father of the House suggesting that the Lord Great Chamberlain might defy the wishes of His Majesty's Government?