HC Deb 13 November 1945 vol 415 cc1887-8
1. Sir Wavell Wakefield

asked the Minister of Works whether, in view of the sustained public desire to attend Debates in the House of Commons, he will erect a temporary gallery at the South End of the present Chamber.

The Minister of Works (Mr. Tomlinson)

No, Sir. I am advised that the work of construction would be considerable; that it could only be carried out at some inconvenience to the proceedings of the House, and that the net gain in seats would be relatively small.

Sir W. Wakefield

Will the Minister reconsider this matter if I can bring to him evidence that will enable the provision of such accommodation as is proposed in this Question to overcome the difficulties he has mentioned?

Mr. Tomlinson

I am prepared to consider it.

Colonel Erroll

Is the Minister not aware that a satisfactory temporary Gallery could be constructed out of tubular steel scaffolding, to hold at least 80 people, without damaging the existing fabric? Would he agree to look into that matter?

Mr. Tomlinson

I think my original answer presupposes that possibility.

Mr. Driberg

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that when I put this Question to him a few months ago he said that the demand for seats in the Gallery would possibly be falling off. Is he still of that opinion, may I ask?

Mr. Tomlinson

I think there is a chance yet.