HC Deb 18 December 1945 vol 417 cc1091-2
4. Mr. Driberg

asked the Minister of Works if he has considered the designs for a proposed additional temporary gallery at the south end of the present Chamber, submitted to him by the hon. and gallant Member for Altrincham and Sale (Colonel Erroll); and if, in view of the continuing heavy demand for tickets from members of the public, he will cause such a gallery to be built during the Christmas recess

5. Sir Wavell Wakefield

asked the Minister of Works how many alternative schemes he has under consideration for increasing accommodation in the galleries in the Chamber; and which of these he is proposing to accept.

Mr. Tomlinson

I have considered the scheme put forward by the hon. and gallant Member for Altrincham. I am not aware of any other scheme; and I see no reason to alter my previous decision against a temporary gallery of the kind proposed.

Mr. Driberg

Has my right hon. Friend seen, besides these designs, the queues of people, night after night, who are genuinely anxious to listen to the proceedings in this House?

Mr. Tomlinson

Yes, I have seen the queues of people, and if this Chamber were bigger, and a temporary gallery could be erected without any inconvenience to hon. Members, I would be delighted to have it.

Mr. Sydney Silverman

Can my right hon. Friend assure the House, at any rate, that in the plans which are ultimately sanctioned for the rebuilding of the House of Commons, there will be proper space for a reasonable number of visitors?

Mr. Tomlinson

Those plans have already been before the House, and that aspect of the matter has been taken into consideration.

Back to